MILAN 2026: India Hosts One of the World’s Biggest Naval Gatherings in Visakhapatnam
INDIAN DEFENCE
India has once again demonstrated its growing maritime strength and diplomatic influence with the launch of Exercise MILAN 2026, a massive multinational naval exercise being held in Visakhapatnam.
This year’s edition is historic in scale, with 72 nations participating and around 60 warships involved, making it one of the largest naval gatherings in recent times. The event highlights India’s expanding role in global maritime security and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
Exercise MILAN is the Indian Navy’s flagship multilateral naval exercise, conducted under the Eastern Naval Command. The 2026 edition has drawn participation from navies across continents, including major global powers such as the United States and Russia. Their presence alongside several Asian, European, and Middle Eastern nations reflects the increasing trust and strategic partnerships India has built in the maritime domain.
The event is being held alongside the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026, creating a combined maritime spectacle that has turned Visakhapatnam into the center of global naval diplomacy. The exercises and related activities are scheduled between February 15 and February 25, bringing together naval officers, ships, aircraft, and defence experts from around the world.
The Purpose Behind Exercise MILAN
Exercise MILAN was first launched in 1995 with just four participating countries. Over the years, it has evolved into a major multinational naval engagement aimed at strengthening professional cooperation, sharing best practices, and enhancing interoperability among navies. The rapid expansion from a small regional exercise to a global naval event reflects India’s rising influence in maritime affairs.
The core theme of MILAN 2026 is “Camaraderie, Cooperation, and Collaboration.” These principles underline the importance of working together to address emerging maritime challenges such as piracy, terrorism, disaster response, and protection of global sea trade routes. Through joint drills and operational planning, participating navies gain valuable experience in coordinating complex maritime missions.
Harbour Phase and Sea Phase Activities
The exercise is divided into two main phases — the harbour phase and the sea phase. During the harbour phase, naval delegations participate in conferences, cultural exchanges, and professional discussions aimed at improving strategic understanding. One of the highlights of this phase is the MILAN Village, a specially created hub where delegates from more than 70 countries interact and experience India’s culture and traditions.
The sea phase is the operational core of the exercise. During this stage, participating warships and aircraft carry out advanced drills including anti-submarine warfare, air defence operations, search-and-rescue missions, and coordinated maritime manoeuvres. These activities help navies practice working together in real-time scenarios, which is crucial during emergencies or multinational missions.
A Massive Naval Presence in the Bay of Bengal
The scale of MILAN 2026 is truly impressive. Dozens of warships from around the world have assembled off the coast of Visakhapatnam, creating a spectacular display of naval power. Along with foreign vessels, the Indian Navy has deployed many of its advanced ships and platforms to demonstrate its operational capabilities.
This gathering is not only about military drills but also about strategic signalling. By hosting such a large-scale event, India is sending a clear message about its commitment to maintaining peace, stability, and security in the Indo-Pacific region. It also shows India’s ability to bring together countries with diverse geopolitical interests on a common platform.
Boost for India’s Maritime Diplomacy
Events like MILAN play a crucial role in strengthening diplomatic ties between nations. When naval forces operate together, they build trust and understanding that goes beyond traditional diplomatic channels. This kind of cooperation is especially important at a time when global maritime routes face increasing security challenges.
For India, hosting MILAN 2026 is also an opportunity to showcase its growing naval capabilities and indigenous defence technologies. It reflects the country’s ambition to become a leading maritime power and a reliable security partner in the region.
Impact on Visakhapatnam and Local Economy
The mega naval exercise has also brought significant attention and economic activity to Visakhapatnam. With thousands of delegates, sailors, and officials arriving from across the world, the city has witnessed increased tourism and hospitality demand. Hotels, transport services, and local businesses have benefited from the influx of international visitors attending the event.
Additionally, cultural events, parades, and interactions with local communities have helped promote India’s rich heritage while strengthening people-to-people connections between participating countries.
Strengthening the Indo-Pacific Vision
Exercise MILAN 2026 is closely aligned with India’s broader strategic vision for the Indo-Pacific region. Through initiatives like these, India aims to promote a rules-based maritime order, ensure freedom of navigation, and encourage collective security cooperation among friendly nations.
The participation of so many countries also indicates that the Indo-Pacific is becoming a focal point of global security discussions. As trade and economic activities continue to depend heavily on sea routes, maintaining stability in these waters has become a shared priority for many nations.
A Milestone for the Indian Navy
For the Indian Navy, MILAN 2026 represents a major milestone in its journey toward becoming a globally respected maritime force. Successfully hosting such a large-scale exercise demonstrates India’s logistical capability, strategic vision, and leadership in international defence cooperation.
As the exercise progresses, it will continue to strengthen professional relationships between navies and reinforce India’s position as a key player in global maritime security. With record participation and extensive operational drills, MILAN 2026 is set to be remembered as one of the most significant naval exercises ever hosted by India.
