The Indian Navy is geared up to host the much-anticipated Milan 24, or the Multilateral Naval Exercise 2024, which is slated to be the largest such exercise, starting Monday(19 February.

• The event reaffirms India’s steadfast commitment to fostering global maritime cooperation, the Navy said.
• The Indian Navy, which would be the sunrise command, extended a hearty welcome to the distinguished fleets of vessels from across the globe, marking the commencement of a week-long demonstration of maritime prowess and cooperation. 
• The event is likely to witness largest-ever participation with invites being extended to over 50 friendly foreign navies. MILAN a Maritime domain is  bridging the continents since ages.
• MILAN exercise has emerged as the Indian Navy’s flagship event towards fostering camaraderie, cohesion and collaboration amongst friendly foreign Navies.
• The exercise resonates with India’s international diplomatic efforts namely ‘Act East policy’ and ‘Security And Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)’.
• MILAN 24 exercise would comprise of two phases - ‘Harbour phase’ and ‘Sea phase’.
• The harbour phase, aims to promote cultural sharing amongst the participating nations, would comprise of International Maritime Seminar, City Parade at RK Beach, Swavalmban Exhibition, Subject Matter Expert Exchange, Milan of Young Officers and various sporting events.
• In the Sea phase, Ships along with Maritime Patrol aircraft and submarines of friendly foreign countries will participate along with Indian Navy units. It will involve large-force manoeuvres, advanced air defence operations, anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface operations, aims  at honing the skills.