Vizag port city witnessed the Indian Navy’s air power demonstration and captivating International City Parade along the RK Beach on Thursday. The RK Beach transformed into a simulated war zone, drawing thousands of spectators along the shoreline to witness the two events. These activities were parts of the ongoing MILAN24, the Indian Navy’s largest-ever multi-nation naval exercise.
The Indian Navy showcased its maritime, air, and onshore capabilities, demonstrating the strength of its naval fleets. Spectators were captivated by the MIG 29K, the dog-fight by Hawks, LCA Tejas fighter aircraft’s combat manoeuvres and the combined flypast of Chetak and newly acquired MH-60 Romeo helicopters during the Air Power Demonstration. Major highlights included the Navy’s skydiving team performing a combat freefall and an impressive pyro-dynamics display by the aerial unit. The Navy’s elite marine commandos, MARCOS, also demonstrated their skill sets at the event. Indian Navy also showcased its prime assets— the indigenous aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. INS Mumbai and INS Chennai graced the coastal waters by anchoring off the shore. It was an incredible sight to watch all illuminated during the night.
The international parade vividly portrayed diverse cultures, accompanied by the uplifting strains of patriotic music, as marching bands from India and various friendly foreign navies captivated the audience. Ajay Bhatt, the Minister of State for Defence, was the chief guest for the international city parade and air demonstration.
“Today, we will witness the power that protects this harmony – a conflux of combat and culture. As the Operational Demonstration by the Marine Commandos unfolds, their precision and valour will inspire awe, and the flypast by naval aircraft will paint the sky with a message of unwavering collective resolve,” the Minister said while addressing the gathering before the event.
Ravi Shankar, Vizag
