ENC chief inaugurates MILAN Village ahead of International Fleet Review in Visakhapatnam

Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command, inaugurated the MILAN Village in the presence of naval personnel and their families in Visakhapatnam on Sunday.

An Indian Navy fighter jet manoeuvres over the Bay of Bengal during a rehearsal at RK Beach in Visakhapatnam on Sunday.
| Photo Credit:
V RAJU

Set up at the ENC Sailors’ Institute, the village will serve as the social and cultural hub for Exercise MILAN 2026 and the International Fleet Review. It features stalls from various Indian States and participating foreign navies, displaying traditional handicrafts, artwork and cultural exhibits. Vice Admiral Bhalla said the initiative reflects the spirit of friendship and cooperation among maritime nations.

Naval tankers manoeuvring during the IFR 2026 rehearsals off RK Beach in Visakhapatnam on Sunday.
| Photo Credit:
V RAJU

Meanwhile, RK Beach Road will turn into a global stage on February 19 evening for the International City Parade, a key attraction of the International Fleet Review and Exercise MILAN 2026. More than 70 countries are expected to take part in the event, showcasing maritime strength and cultural diversity.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will attend as chief guest. The programme will be hosted by Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, and Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla.

The parade will begin at 4 p.m. with an aerial display by Indian Naval fighter aircraft and helicopters. Marching contingents and military bands from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard will participate, along with ceremonial units from foreign navies. Cultural troupes and thematic tableaux highlighting India’s maritime legacy and the traditions of visiting nations will add colour to the event.

The evening will conclude with synchronised fireworks, a laser light show and a drone display, with illuminated warships anchored off the Visakhapatnam coast providing a striking backdrop.