Why it matters:
Iran’s presence in one of the largest naval drills in the Indian Ocean underscores its growing role in regional maritime security and highlights efforts to strengthen defense cooperation beyond Western alliances.
The big picture:
MILAN 2026 is being held in Visakhapatnam, India, from February 17 to 25 in the Bay of Bengal.
The exercise includes two main phases: a harbor phase focused on professional meetings and cultural exchanges, and a sea phase involving complex tactical drills.
More than 70 countries from across the globe are taking part, reflecting the exercise’s expanding international significance.
What’s happening:
The Iranian Navy has deployed the domestically built destroyer Dena to participate in the drills.
The vessel docked at Visakhapatnam port as part of Iran’s broader strategy to expand maritime diplomacy and showcase its operational capabilities in open waters.
Iran’s participation is seen as a sign of Tehran’s efforts to deepen military and naval engagement with other nations.
Key points:
- The sea phase includes joint tactical maneuvers, air defense drills, anti-submarine warfare, and search-and-rescue operations aimed at enhancing coordination among participating navies.
- India has also inaugurated the “MILAN Village,” a platform designed to facilitate cultural interaction, professional exchanges, and networking among naval delegations.
- Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh said the exercise strengthens maritime coordination and provides a platform to address emerging threats, including maritime terrorism and collective security challenges.
Go deeper:
MILAN is held biennially and has evolved into one of the most prominent naval gatherings in the Indo-Pacific region.
Iran’s participation reflects its doctrine of constructive naval presence, securing sea lanes, and contributing to regional stability.
Iranian officials say such engagements demonstrate that the country remains an active and influential maritime actor despite unilateral Western sanctions.
Mojtaba Darabi - ahmad shirzadian
