MILAN-2026 Naval Exercise Strengthens International Ties

The MILAN-2026 naval exercise concluded off the coast of Visakhapatnam, India, marking a significant event aimed at fostering international naval collaboration and friendship. The exercise saw the participation of various nations, showcasing their naval capabilities while strengthening diplomatic relations.

The event included an International Fleet Review and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium-2026, highlighting the collective maritime security interests shared among the participating countries. The finale featured the Indian Navy’s aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, which became a centrepiece as representatives exchanged pleasantries on board.

Participants included military officials and sailors from several nations. Benjamin Esparon, a participant from Seychelles, expressed gratitude to India for the opportunity to partake in this multilateral naval exercise. "I am participating in MILAN for the first time. Ours is a small nation and I am grateful to India for giving us an opportunity to participate in a multilateral naval exercise. I had my military training in India," he noted.

Esparon highlighted challenges facing Seychelles, specifically drug smuggling and human trafficking, and acknowledged the Indian Navy’s assistance in training Seychellois defence personnel.

Nafiu from the Maldives shared a positive experience, stating, "The event has been wonderfully arranged and executed well. We are here for the past 20 days." This exercise marks his sixth visit to India, where he appreciates the cultural links between the two nations.

Oezir from Indonesia conveyed his satisfaction with the event, noting the overall experience was very good and he valued the cultural exchanges that occurred.

The participating countries praised Visakhapatnam for its scenic beauty and the cultural experiences offered during their stay. The modern INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenously-built aircraft carrier, which recently joined the fleet, played a significant role in this exercise. It measures 262.5 metres in length and accommodates hundreds of naval personnel.

The carrier is equipped to operate various naval aircraft and has extensive facilities, demonstrating India’s advancing naval capabilities. It can accommodate 1,700 personnel and features automated galleys capable of producing thousands of meals daily. The impressive infrastructure of the ship underscored India’s maritime strength and readiness.

Overall, MILAN-2026 underscored the importance of mutual cooperation and understanding among nations, reinforcing friendships across seas and laying a foundation for future engagements in maritime security and collaboration.