MILAN Village Launch Strengthens India Maritime Cooperation

MILAN Village inaugurated in Visakhapatnam

MILAN Village Launch Strengthens India Maritime Cooperation: The Indian Navy inaugurated the MILAN Village on February 15, 2026, at the Eastern Naval Command, Visakhapatnam, marking the formal beginning of Exercise MILAN 2026. The inauguration was presided over by Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, highlighting India’s commitment to maritime cooperation. Over 70 countries participated, making it one of the largest naval gatherings in the Indo-Pacific region.

The village acts as a cultural and professional hub where naval delegates interact beyond operational engagements. It promotes mutual trust, cooperation, and friendship among participating navies.

Static GK fact: The Eastern Naval Command headquartered in Visakhapatnam is one of the three major commands of the Indian Navy, responsible for safeguarding India’s eastern maritime frontier.

Cultural and diplomatic significance

The MILAN Village reflects the theme of “Camaraderie, Cooperation, Collaboration.” It includes folk dances, handicraft exhibitions, naval displays, and regional Indian cuisines, showcasing India’s cultural diversity. This cultural diplomacy strengthens relationships and fosters informal interactions between naval personnel.

Such initiatives help build confidence and long-term partnerships among nations. Cultural exchanges complement military exercises and improve diplomatic engagement.

Static GK Tip: Visakhapatnam, located on the Bay of Bengal, is the largest naval base on India’s eastern coast and is known as the “City of Destiny.”

Exercise MILAN 2026 and operational objectives

Exercise MILAN 2026 is being conducted from February 15 to 25, 2026, and includes both Harbour Phase and Sea Phase operations. Naval forces participate in anti-submarine warfare, air defence drills, search and rescue missions, and maritime security operations.

These exercises improve interoperability, coordination, and joint response capabilities among participating navies. It strengthens collective readiness to address maritime threats such as piracy and illegal activities.

Exercise MILAN 2026 is also conducted alongside the International Fleet Review 2026 and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium Conclave of Chiefs, making it a major maritime convergence event.

Static GK fact: The Indian Ocean is the third-largest ocean in the world and is critical for global trade, with nearly 80% of oil shipments passing through it.

Supporting India MAHASAGAR vision

Exercise MILAN 2026 supports India’s MAHASAGAR vision, which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. This initiative promotes regional security, maritime cooperation, and economic growth.

India aims to position itself as a preferred security partner and responsible maritime power. Through such exercises, India enhances maritime domain awareness and contributes to maintaining free, open, and inclusive sea lanes.

This aligns with India’s broader goal of strengthening security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

Evolution of Exercise MILAN

Exercise MILAN was first conducted in 1995 as a small regional naval exercise. It was initially limited to a few friendly countries but gradually expanded into a major multilateral exercise.

Over the years, MILAN has evolved in scale, complexity, and participation. The 2026 edition stands out due to participation from over 70 countries and its integration with major naval events.

This reflects India’s growing role as a key maritime leader in the Indo-Pacific region.

Static GK Tip: The Indian Navy was established in 1612 as the East India Company’s Marine and became the Royal Indian Navy before independence.

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MILAN Village Launch Strengthens India Maritime Cooperation: