HMAS Warramunga joined hundreds of thousands of spectators and military personnel lining the streets for one of India’s largest public maritime celebrations.

The crew represented Australia at the International Fleet Review city parade in Visakhapatnam, which featured an impressive series of military displays, including precision aerial manoeuvres, ceremonial bands, cultural performances and uniformed contingents from navies across the world.

During the parade, the Governor of Andhra Pradesh Shri S. Abdul Nazeer paid tribute to the people of Visakhapatnam and the significance of the event.

“My profound gratitude also goes to the people of Vishakhapatnam for opening not only your city but also your hearts to the navies of the world,” Mr Nazeer said.

“As they say in Telugu, Āndhrula ātithyam prapanchāniki telisinadē, which means, the hospitality of the people of Andhra, is known to the world.

“I’m certain that the international participants would have experienced this period of warmth and respect firsthand.

“As always, this international city parade has been a unique highlight of the International Fleet Review and Exercise Milan, blending the colour and vibrancy of local culture with the discipline and pride of uniform of personnel from across the globe.

“I am certain that the friendships forged, the camaraderie displayed and the memories created here will carry the spirit of Vishakhapatnam, the International Fleet Review and Milan far and wide, across oceans and continents, and what better setting than this, with the sea, the sunset and the spirit all coming together to bring such an endeavour to life.”

Australia had the honour of leading the international marching contingent, with Warramunga’s  company stepping out at the front of the formation to represent the Royal Australian Navy on the global stage.

Royal Australian Navy Platoon Commander Lieutenant Commander Andrew Kell said the turnout was amazing.

“It is a tremendous honour for the crew of HMAS Warramunga to march along on the shores of Ramakrishna Beach, with the Bay of Bengal before us and the hundreds of thousands of spectators lining the foreshore,” Lieutenant Commander Kell said.

“We are equally honoured to march here among some of the international contingents and their bands, each stepping out with pride on Indian soil and embodying the friendship, trust and mutual respect that bind our nations together.”