The celebration began with a large Parade of Sail that transformed the harbor into a showcase of global maritime partnerships. It was followed by the International Aerial Review, led by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.
The aerial display included U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightnings, MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft and carrier-based multi-role fighters. The MQ-25A Stingray, the Navy’s first operational carrier-based unmanned refueling aircraft, was displayed on the flight deck of USS Nimitz.
Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Daryl Caudle hosted the welcome ceremony to formally open the event. Senior U.S. military officials and delegations from 55 allied and partner nations attended the ceremony in New York City.
The U.S. Navy said the gathering highlights the role of sea power in global security, deterrence and alliance cooperation since 1776. International Naval Review 250 is being held in the Port of New York and New Jersey from July 3 to 8, 2026.
USS Farragut, an Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer, is serving as the official reviewing warship. With Vice President JD Vance embarked as the reviewing official, Farragut sailed through the international fleet to receive and render honors.
USS Nimitz and the Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Kearsarge are anchored prominently in New York Harbor. The Navy said the two ships represent the versatility and global reach of the U.S. fleet.
Allied ships at the event include Spain’s amphibious assault ship Juan Carlos I, Germany’s air-defense frigate FGS Sachsen and South Korea’s destroyer Munmu the Great. The British ocean liner Queen Mary II, U.S. Coast Guard assets, merchant mariners and naval academy training vessels are also represented.
USS Arlington, a San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock, remains moored at Pier 88 in Manhattan. The ship is serving as the primary hub for public ship tours and community interaction.
More than 20,000 U.S. Sailors, Marines, Coast Guardsmen and international service members are expected to take part in demonstrations, public tours and community events. The programme also includes aviation and tactical demonstrations at Liberty State Park, military band performances and Silent Drill Platoon events in Times Square.
“Bringing the world’s navies together in New York Harbor for our semiquincentennial is a powerful demonstration of the strength and unity of our global alliances,” said Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Daryl Caudle. “For 250 years, the United States has relied on a strong sea service to protect our shores and ensure the freedom of the seas. Today, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with 55 partner nations, we send a clear message that our commitment to shared global security is stronger than ever.”
International Naval Review 250 is the pinnacle event of the U.S. Navy’s celebration of America’s 250th birthday. The Navy described it as the largest international maritime event in U.S. history, with more than 70 U.S. and allied naval vessels and international tall ships.
The event also includes a multinational flyover as part of the International Aerial Review. The Navy said the review honors 250 years of American sea power and global maritime partnership.
The U.S. Navy said the event showcases alliance strength and a shared commitment to a free and open international order. It also celebrates the enduring role of the Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard in defending the nation, securing maritime security and preserving American independence.
