Exercise MILAN 2026, the Indian Navy’s premier multilateral maritime exercise, concluded with a ceremonial closing onboard India’s indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant off the coast of Visakhapatnam, marking a significant milestone in regional naval cooperation.
The ceremony was presided over by Rear Admiral Alok Ananda, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet. Commanding Officers and officers from all participating units attended the event, commemorating the successful completion of the exercise and the strengthening of maritime partnerships across the Bay of Bengal.
Held under the theme Camaraderie Cooperation Collaboration, MILAN 2026 witnessed participation on an unprecedented scale. A total of 42 ships and submarines and 29 aircraft took part in the exercise, including 18 ships from Friendly Foreign Countries. In addition to integral helicopters embarked on foreign warships, maritime patrol aircraft from France, Germany and USA also participated.
The exercise began with a Harbour Phase that focused on professional engagement and knowledge exchange. Activities included bilateral meetings, a Subject Matter Expert Exchange programme and the International Maritime Seminar. These were complemented by cultural exchanges, cross deck and outstation visits. Technological demonstrations and the MILAN of Young Officers interaction enabled sharing of best practices, while friendly sports fixtures promoted informal interaction among participating personnel.
The Sea Phase followed with high intensity operational drills covering advanced warfare disciplines such as integrated air defence, antisubmarine warfare, maritime interdiction operations, surface strike coordination, communication exercises and cross deck flying operations. These activities were designed to enhance interoperability, collective readiness and tactical coordination among participating navies.
Live firing exercises were conducted, including surface gun shoots, FPM drills and anti air firings. Emphasis was placed on real time coordination, joint mission planning and logistical support at sea. Friendly Foreign navies operated alongside Indian Naval Ships in complex tactical manoeuvres, reflecting growing convergence of maritime interests in ensuring safe and secure seas.
The exercise reinforced operational synergy and validated rapid response capabilities and best practices aligned with the vision of MAHASAGAR Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.
During the closing ceremony, Commanding Officers of all participating ships expressed appreciation for the professional conduct and meticulous planning that defined MILAN 2026. They affirmed that the exercise achieved its training objectives and operational goals, significantly strengthening interoperability, mutual understanding and collective maritime preparedness.
The successful conclusion of MILAN 2026 underscores the shared commitment of participating navies to deepen cooperative mechanisms and foster enduring partnerships in pursuit of maritime security and regional stability.
