Milan-26: India’s Ascendancy in Maritime Diplomacy

The Milan-26 naval exercises, scheduled from February 18-25, 2026, in Visakhapatnam, India, mark a significant milestone in India's maritime diplomacy. This 13th edition of the biennial exercise will see participation from over 70 countries, including major naval powers such as the United States and Russia. The event is part of a larger series of maritime activities, including the International Fleet Review (IFR) 2026 and the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) Ninth Conclave of Chiefs, collectively referred to as the "Vizag trifecta." This convergence of naval operations and strategic dialogues underscores India's evolving role in the Indo-Pacific maritime security architecture.

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Milan began in 1995 with the participation of just four countries: Indonesia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Over the years, it has expanded significantly, reflecting India's growing maritime interests and capabilities. By 2022, the exercise attracted 42 foreign nations, and the upcoming Milan-26 is projected to be the largest yet, with invitations extended to 135 countries. This evolution illustrates India's transition from a regional maritime participant to a pivotal player in global maritime cooperation.

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The scale and complexity of Milan-26 highlight India's increasing convening power and strategic ambitions. The exercise will feature both harbor and high-sea phases, focusing on maritime domain awareness, air defense, anti-submarine warfare, and humanitarian operations. This multifaceted approach aims to enhance interoperability among diverse naval forces, showcasing India's capabilities and commitment to collective maritime security. The presence of significant naval assets from the United States and Russia at the event further emphasizes India's unique position as a mediator in a polarized geopolitical landscape.

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India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has articulated a vision for maritime cooperation through the SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) initiatives. These frameworks aim to foster cooperative security, capacity building, and humanitarian assistance. The participation of countries from Southeast Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and beyond in Milan-26 reflects the positive reception of India's diplomatic overtures.

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While the expansion of Milan-26 is largely viewed positively, some analysts express concerns regarding the implications of India's growing military partnerships. Critics argue that increased military collaboration may exacerbate regional tensions and provoke responses from neighboring countries. However, proponents assert that such exercises are essential for building trust and enhancing collective security in the Indo-Pacific.

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• “The confirmed participation of United States and Russian naval assets underscores India’s ability to engage with opposing geopolitical poles through cooperative security frameworks.” — Defense Expert

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Milan-26 signifies India's transition from a regional player to a central node in global maritime cooperation. By hosting diverse naval forces and fostering strategic dialogues, India is reinforcing its role as a bridge between regional and extra-regional maritime actors. This holistic approach to maritime diplomacy, rooted in the SAGAR and MAHASAGAR visions, positions India as a key contributor to the collective security framework of the 21st century.

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