Andaman and Nicobar Command to host Milan 2018

The second week of March will witness Andaman and Nicobar Command hosting a multinational mega event 'Milan 2018'.

The Indian Navy will host the multi-national MILAN series of exercises at Port Blair in Andaman and Nicobar islands from March 6 to March 13, 2018.

Under the aegis of the Andaman and Nicobar Command, it is being held at Port Blair with the underlying theme of 'Friendship Across the Seas'.

Besides fostering co-operation through naval exercises and professional interactions, Milan also provides an excellent opportunity to the participating navies to come together in a spirit of collaboration and mutual understanding to nurture stronger ties.

Milan made modest beginnings more than two decades ago when it was first held in 1995.

The first edition saw the participation of four littoral navies. The event achieved strident success during the ensuing years owing to high standards of professional content of the event.

From an event of sub- regional context, Milan has now grown into a prestigious international event and encompasses participation by maritime forces from not just the Bay of Bengal and South East Asia but the larger Indian Ocean Region (lOR).

Milan will witness a diverse mix of professional exercises and seminars, social events and sporting fixtures.

The interactions at the event encompass sharing of views and ideas on maritime good - order and enhancing regional cooperation for combating unlawful activities at sea.

The inaugural address will be delivered by Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba besides presentations by eminent speakers.

The social interactions planned include a display by bands of the Indian Navy and Indian Army, ship visits and colorful cultural evenings.

Several events of Milan 2018 will be open to the public including displays by skydiving team, beating the retreat and Naval continuity drill.

An International City Parade will be held along the Marina Park Road, with marching contingents from all participating foreign naval ships as well as the Indian Armed Forces.

The parade will include a fly-past and aerobatic display by military aircraft and demonstrations of various military operations.

Milan 2018 aims to showcase the rich heritage and pristine natural beauty of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to the foreign visitors.