MILAN 24 Naval Exercise: Showcasing India's Maritime Competence and Fostering Global Partnerships
| 2024-01-15
Representative image.
Over 50 countries are expected to participate in Exercise Milan 2024
The Indian Navy is set to host the 12th edition of the prestigious multinational naval exercise MILAN 24 in Visakhapatnam from February 19 to 27, 2024. This biennial event has been a cornerstone of maritime collaboration and cooperation since its inception in 1995. Over 50 countries are expected to take part in this edition of the exercise.
Indian Navy ships, aircraft and submarines led by Indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and 20-25 Foreign Naval Units will participate in large force manoeuvres, advanced air defence operations, Anti-Submarine Warfare, Anti Surface warfare operation and War at Sea, according to information available on the official website.
Exercise MILAN, which began in 1995 in line with India's 'Look East’ policy, has grown significantly in scope and participation. Initially involving four nations, it has now become a major event under the aegis of the Eastern Naval Command. The 11th edition, held in 2022, was themed ‘Camaraderie-Cohesion-Collaboration’, underscoring the spirit of unity and partnership among the participating navies.
Chief of Naval Staff’s Vision for MILAN 24
Indian Navy ships, aircraft and submarines led by Indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant and 20-25 Foreign Naval Units will participate in large force manoeuvres, advanced air defence operations, Anti-Submarine Warfare, Anti Surface warfare operation and War at Sea, according to information available on the official website.
Exercise MILAN, which began in 1995 in line with India's 'Look East’ policy, has grown significantly in scope and participation. Initially involving four nations, it has now become a major event under the aegis of the Eastern Naval Command. The 11th edition, held in 2022, was themed ‘Camaraderie-Cohesion-Collaboration’, underscoring the spirit of unity and partnership among the participating navies.
Chief of Naval Staff’s Vision for MILAN 24
Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, in his welcome message, emphasized the significance of MILAN as a demonstration of India's commitment to maritime security in the Indian Ocean region. He noted that MILAN 24 aligns with India's vision of 'SAGAR' - Security and Growth for All in the Region, and resonates with India’s G20 Presidency theme - 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' or 'One Earth, One Family, One Future'.
Highlights of MILAN 24
MILAN 24 will feature two phases: the 'Harbour phase', focusing on cultural exchange and knowledge sharing, and the 'Sea phase', which includes operational drills and exercises. The Harbour phase will feature discussions on maritime challenges, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges, and a Table Top Exercise. Meanwhile, the Sea phase will engage assets in operational drills including seamanship evolutions, weapon firings, and tactical manoeuvres.
Apart from the operational aspects, MILAN 24 also promises an array of recreational and cultural events, celebrating the shared heritage of the participating navies. These include sports championships, cultural tours, and social exchanges, adding a dimension of camaraderie and cultural understanding to the exercise.
India's Growing Role in Maritime Security
Hosting MILAN 24 in Visakhapatnam, a city of significant naval history, the Indian Navy aims to provide a platform for building partnerships and enhancing maritime security. This exercise is a major presenter of India's operational capabilities and its commitment to being a responsible maritime power.
MILAN 24 represents a crucial step towards fostering global maritime partnerships and enhancing collective capabilities to address challenges in the Indian Ocean region. The Indian Navy's commitment to a professionally rewarding and culturally enriching experience is set to make MILAN 24 a landmark event in the calendar of global naval exercises.
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