The 12th edition of the MILAN naval exercise commenced in Vishakhapatnam on Monday, with participation from over 50 countries in the nine-day event, concluding on Feb 27.
Themed “Forging Naval Alliances for a Secure Maritime Future,” the exercise aims to bolster collaboration among participating naval forces.
Fifteen ships and one Maritime Patrol Aircraft from friendly foreign nations will join the sea exercise. From the Indian Navy, nearly 20 ships, including aircraft carriers Vikrant and Vikramaditya, and around 50 aircraft, such as MiG 29K and P8I, will participate.
At the inaugural ceremony in Visakhapatnam, Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar emphasized the exercise’s significance, noting its growth in stature, content, and complexity. With invitations extended to 58 countries and over 50 positive responses, the exercise is set to be the largest to date.
Admiral Kumar stressed the importance of collaboration, cohesion, and interaction, highlighting the maritime sector’s increasing significance. With India’s aiming to become the third-largest economy by 2030, the exercise plays a crucial role in ensuring safety, security, and adherence to the rules-based order in the oceans. Admiral Hari Kumar reaffirmed the Navy’s dedication to safeguarding national interests in the maritime domain during the MILAN exercise.
(Inputs from ANI)