A striking satellite image captured by Azista Space’s AFR satellite has revealed an extraordinary formation of 71 naval ships lined up off the coast of Visakhapatnam.
The image was taken during the International Fleet Review 2026 (IFR 2026) between February 15-25, 2026.
The high-resolution imagery shows a disciplined, multi-column alignment of warships stretching across the waters, representing not just India’s naval strength but also participation from partner nations.
The event, hosted by the Indian Navy, brought together major naval platforms in a powerful display of maritime cooperation and diplomacy.
Among the prominent vessels visible in the formation is INS Vikrant, India’s indigenously built aircraft carrier and a symbol of the country’s growing blue-water capabilities. Alongside Indian platforms, ships from friendly foreign navies were positioned in coordinated columns, underscoring interoperability, the ability of different naval forces to operate together seamlessly.
The image offers a rare orbital perspective of one of the largest peacetime naval gatherings in the region. From space, the fleet appears as a precise grid across the Bay of Bengal, reflecting meticulous planning and synchronized maneuvering.
Experts say the satellite capture highlights the increasing role of space-based Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) systems in Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA).
Simply put, ISR refers to satellites and sensors that observe and gather information, while MDA involves tracking and understanding activities at sea to ensure security and strategic preparedness.
The ability to monitor such large-scale naval deployments from orbit demonstrates how commercial and defense space capabilities are reshaping maritime analysis. Beyond ceremonial significance, the imagery shows how satellite technology can provide real-time visibility of naval movements, strengthening strategic assessment and transparency.
IFR 2026 not only showcased naval might but also signaled India’s expanding role in global maritime diplomacy, a message now clearly visible from space.
