MILAN 24: India gears up for largest-ever naval exercise, extends invitation to 50 countries

The Eastern Naval Command (ENC) recently hosted the Mid Planning Conference (MPC) for MILAN 24, a biennial multilateral naval exercise scheduled to be held from February 19 to 27, 2024, in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Representatives from invited friendly foreign navies participated in the conference held via video conference on October 17, 2023.

MILAN, originally conceptualised by the Indian Navy in 1995, has since evolved into a significant maritime event with global participation, as stated in the Ministry of Defence's official statement. Aligned with India's 'Act East Policy' and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 'Security And Growth for All in the Region' (SAGAR) initiative, MILAN serves as a testament to India's expanding regional engagement.

The upcoming edition, MILAN 24, is set to be the largest in its history, with invitations extended to over 50 countries. According to Navy officials, the event aims to promote ‘camaraderie’, ‘cohesion’, and ‘collaboration’ among participating nations. It will encompass a harbour phase and a sea phase, showcasing a diverse array of maritime capabilities. The harbour phase will feature key events such as the International Maritime Seminar, a City Parade at RK Beach, the Swavlamban Exhibition, Subject Matter Expert Exchange, and the Milan of Young Officers. During the sea phase, ships, maritime patrol aircraft, and submarines from friendly foreign countries will engage in large-force manoeuvres, advanced air defence operations, anti-submarine warfare, and anti-surface warfare operations.

MILAN 22

MILAN 22, held in February and March of 2022, commemorated India's 75th year of independence and witnessed participation from over 40 nations. The event emphasised exercises across surface, sub-surface, and air domains, including live weapon firings. MILAN 22 underscored India's role as a responsible maritime power and highlighted the growing significance of the Eastern Naval Command.

Beyond military prowess, as per the MoD, MILAN serves as a platform for diplomatic outreach and mutual understanding. It facilitates international cooperation on matters of common interest, ranging from anti-piracy efforts to humanitarian and disaster relief missions.

Also, the maritime exercise aligns with the theme of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' - the belief that the world is one family, similar to what India’s G20 presidency was all about. This nine-day maritime exercise, as per Navy officials, will strengthen bonds among nations, foster maritime security, and promote global cooperation in the maritime domain with its expanding scope and participation.