Visakhapatnam (Vizag: The upcoming 12th edition of the Multilateral Naval Exercise - 2024 (MILAN) is scheduled to be held in Visakhapatnam from February 19 to 27. Anticipated to see the largest turnout yet, the exercise is expected to draw participation from over 50 countries, including nearly 20 ships from friendly nations.
A final Planning Conference for the exercise was recently conducted in a hybrid mode (a mix of virtual and in-person) at Visakhapatnam. Chaired by CSO (Ops) from @IN_HQENC, the conference was attended by representatives from the participating nations, as mentioned in an official statement by the Navy.
Initially launched by the Indian Navy in 1995, MILAN serves as a biennial multilateral naval exercise. Originally aligned with India's 'Look East Policy', MILAN expanded over the years in accordance with the government's 'Act East policy' and Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) initiative. This expansion facilitated the inclusion of participation from other Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs).
The harbor phase of MILAN 24 will encompass various activities such as an International Maritime Seminar, a City Parade at RK Beach, the Swavlamban Exhibition, Subject Matter Expert Exchange, and a Milan of Young Officers.
During the sea phase, ships, maritime patrol aircraft, and submarines from Friendly Foreign Countries will join Indian Navy units. It's anticipated that the Indian Navy will deploy both its aircraft carriers—INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant—to the Eastern seaboard in Visakhapatnam for the exercise. This phase will involve large-force maneuvers, advanced air defense operations, anti-submarine warfare, and anti-surface warfare operations.
The lead-up to MILAN coincides with India's G20 Presidency, and the execution of the exercise will once again exemplify the 'G20 theme Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'.
Notably, MILAN 22 took place in Visakhapatnam from February 25 to March 4, 2022, witnessing participation from 39 countries.
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