Exercise MILAN 2026: Strengthening Maritime Diplomacy under MAHASAGAR Vision
Syllabus: Defence Exercises (UPSC GS Prelims)
Source: PIB
Context
India will host a historic maritime convergence in February 2026 at Visakhapatnam, featuring three major events — the International Fleet Review (IFR), Exercise MILAN 2026, and the IONS Conclave of Chiefs — under the Indian Navy’s MAHASAGAR Vision for regional maritime cooperation and security.
About Exercise MILAN 2026
What it is
- Exercise MILAN is a biennial multilateral naval exercise hosted by the Indian Navy since 1995, aimed at strengthening naval diplomacy, interoperability, and maritime partnerships.
- It began modestly with four participating navies at Port Blair, and has since evolved into a premier global maritime event, drawing participation from over 40 friendly foreign navies spanning the Indo-Pacific, Africa, Europe, and ASEAN regions.
Aim
To enhance maritime domain awareness, anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities, air defence coordination, and search-and-rescue (SAR) preparedness — reinforcing a rules-based, cooperative maritime order.
Key Features of MILAN 2026
- Dual-Phase Format: Conducted in Harbour and Sea Phases, combining strategic-level discussions with high-intensity naval operations.
- Advanced Naval Drills: Will include ASW, air defence, MDA, and SAR operations, promoting real-time tactical interoperability among partner navies.
- International City Parade: A grand maritime parade at RK Beach, Visakhapatnam, featuring contingents from participating navies, the Indian Army, and Indian Air Force, showcasing India’s maritime diplomacy and joint force capability.
- Showcase of Indigenous Naval Power: India will highlight platforms like INS Vikrant, Visakhapatnam-class destroyers, and Nilgiri-class frigates, reflecting its emergence as a Builder’s Navy committed to Aatmanirbharta in defence.
Significance of MILAN 2026
- Strengthening Maritime Diplomacy: Positions India as a regional convenor for naval cooperation, advancing the MAHASAGAR Vision of Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR).
- Enhancing Naval Interoperability: Builds trust, coordination, and tactical synergy for effective multilateral maritime operations.
- Supporting Indo-Pacific Initiatives: Reinforces India’s role in promoting a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific, aligned with Act East Policy and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI).
