Mission IFR: Waves of Patriotism, Signals of Service!

A Unique and prestigious assignment unlike our usual disaster response missions. This was our contribution to the 2016 International Fleet Review (IFR), conducted by the Indian Navy in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
A Unique Assignment
Unlike our participation in cyclones, floods, and earthquakes — such as the Orissa Super Cyclone, Gujarat Earthquake, and Uttarkashi Earthquake — the IFR was a ceremonial and strategic event involving 50 naval chiefs from across the world, including our own Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and President Shri Pranab Mukherjee.
The Visakhapatnam Police Commissioner recognized the importance of seamless communication and requested support from ham radio operators to coordinate between 11 vital locations, including the Command Control Centre, INS Dega, Viswapriya Function Hall, Airport, Novotel Hotel, and Naval Guest Houses.
The Ham Team and Coordination
I had the privilege of serving as the coordinator, alongside experienced operators like VU2ICC Sivaram Prasad Garu and VU3WJN Sarath Garu. We formed a dedicated team of 23 operators from across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, pooling our resources — HF/VHF radios, walkie-talkies, antennas, analyzers, tuners, and more.
Operators like VU3FTP (Ramesh Garu), VU2IPL (Suresh Garu), VU2IDF (formerly VU3NYD), VU3BSR (Late Ratnam Master Garu), VU2POG (Subramaniam Garu, retired from Police Dept), and Purushottam Garu (Krishna District Ham Control Room) played crucial roles. The Nellore team, under Sarathy Garu, brought vital repeater equipment and support.
Logistics and Accommodation
Our journey began on February 2nd, from Vijayawada to Visakhapatnam via Rajahmundry and Annavaram. We were graciously hosted by VU2VNO Venugopal Garu, who had vacated his Chinnavaltheru residence for our accommodation. Official accommodation was provided at Gautam College, but being far from the venue, we opted for this strategic location.
Our team, including VU3FTP Ramesh Garu, VU2IPL Suresh Garu, and VU2JDF Nageswara Rao Garu, carried all necessary equipment by jeep, fully prepared to tackle the technical challenges.
Setting Up Stations
We started work immediately — collecting bamboo poles for antennas from timber depots, securing logistics, and assigning locations. Transportation support from the Police Communication Wing, including a dedicated vehicle, enabled smooth movement.
By February 3rd, most stations were ready. However, we received a late-night request to set up two additional stations at Park Hotel and Naval Canteen. Though exhausted, Ramesh Garu and Suresh Garu rose to the occasion, setting up both stations by 4 AM, ensuring everything was in place by the start of the event.
Repeater Setup at Rishikonda
One of the most critical parts of our operation was setting up a repeater station at Rishikonda. The team from Nellore — Basha Garu, Sarathy Garu, and others — carried heavy equipment uphill, braving all odds. Initially, we lacked essential Jaya wire, but with timely help from CI Radhakrishna of the police communications team, we completed the installation.
These hams stayed on-site throughout the event, ensuring the repeater functioned flawlessly, enabling real-time communication between all locations.
Overcoming Challenges
We did face challenges — such as miscommunication at INS Dega Airport and late additions — but the commitment and professionalism of our ham radio team ensured smooth resolution. Every team member worked round the clock, demonstrating the spirit of service and technical excellence.
In Conclusion
The 2016 International Fleet Review was not just a naval exercise; it was a national prestige event — and we, as ham radio operators, were honored to play a small but significant role. Our sincere thanks to all operators, the police communication team, and volunteers who made this operation a grand success.
On this Republic Day, let us remember: Service through radio is our silent strength.
Long live ham radio. Jai Hind!