From February 19th to February 27th, 2024, the Indian Navy is all set to host MILAN 24, a highly anticipated multilateral naval exercise, in Visakhapatnam. This event upholds India’s commitment to promoting international maritime cooperation, following a tradition of hosting the MILAN exercise.
MILAN, a biennial multilateral naval exercise, was inaugurated by the Indian Navy in 1995. Initially aligned with India’s ‘Look East Policy,’ it has evolved with India’s international engagement through the ‘Act East policy’ and the ‘Security And Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)’ initiative led by Honorable Prime Minister Narendra Modi. As a result, MILAN now welcomes participation from Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs).
In 2022, MILAN 22 was held in and off Visakhapatnam from February 25th to March 4th, featuring participation from an impressive 39 countries, highlighting the exercise’s growing international appeal.
MILAN 24, the upcoming iteration, will encompass both a harbor phase and a sea phase. The harbor phase will feature a wide range of events and activities, including an International Maritime Seminar, a City Parade at RK Beach, the Swavlamban Exhibition, Subject Matter Expert Exchange, and the Milan of Young Officers. Ships, maritime patrol aircraft, and submarines from Friendly Foreign Countries will participate in the sea phase alongside Indian Navy units.
The sea phase of MILAN 24 will see active involvement from naval assets of Friendly Foreign Countries, along with Indian Navy units. This phase will involve Large-Foreign Maneuvers, Advanced Air Defense Operations, Anti-Submarine Warfare, and Anti-Surface Warfare Operations.
Notably, MILAN 24 will coincide with India’s G20 Presidency, aligning with the exercise’s theme of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (the world is one family). Scheduled for February 19th to 27th, 2024, at/on Visakhapatnam, MILAN 24 is expected to witness its largest-ever participation, with invitations extended to over 50 countries.