PNN – The Islamic Republic of Iran’s destroyer Dena participated in the large and international “Milan 2026” exercise hosted by the Indian Navy and attended by 72 countries around the world.
The large-scale, multilateral naval exercise “Milan 2026” hosted by the Indian Navy, with the participation of 72 countries from around the world, began in the port of Visakhapatnam.
The 10-day exercise, which involves more than 60 warships and three foreign aircraft, is considered one of the most important maritime events in the Indo-Pacific region. The Iranian destroyer “Dena” also participated in the naval parade of the exercise.
The exercise, which began on Sunday at the port of Visakhapatnam, is hosting several countries including Iran, Russia, China, Japan, Germany, the Philippines, the United Arab Emirates, South Africa, the United States and a number of Southeast Asian and African countries. The large-scale event will cement India’s position as one of the region’s major maritime powers.
During this period of exercises, the Indian Navy has deployed its flagship capabilities, including aircraft carriers as well as Visakhapatnam-class destroyers.
On the sidelines of the exercise, the ‘Milan Village’ was inaugurated at the Eastern Naval Command headquarters. Designed to foster professional and cultural interactions among the participating navies, the complex provides a space for social and cultural exchanges and showcases India’s diverse heritage. Cultural programs, handicraft displays, and local food offerings are among the features of this village.
The Eastern Naval Command emphasized at the opening ceremony that the concurrence of the Milan exercise, the International Fleet Review 2026, and the Indian Ocean Chiefs of Naval Forces (IONS) Conference marks an important stage in the development of India’s maritime engagements with partner countries.
The Milan 2026 exercise will be held in two phases: port and sea. The sea phase will include exercises such as aircraft carrier operations, anti-submarine warfare, air defense, naval gunfire, search and rescue operations, and multinational tactical maneuvers. In the port phase, specialized meetings, an international maritime seminar, and training programs for young officers are also planned.
According to the organizers, this event aims to enhance interoperability, increase maritime awareness, and strengthen collective response capabilities on the high seas based on international law.
Also, during this program, the Indian Presidential Fleet is scheduled to visit the sea and showcase some of the country’s indigenous capabilities.
The “Milan 2026” exercise, with the slogan “Friendship, Cooperation, and Partnership,” seeks to strengthen operational interactions, pave the way for the expansion of maritime diplomacy, and create broader partnerships among the world’s navies.