Eastern Naval Command (ENC) inaugurates MILAN Village ahead of International Fleet Review 2026 in Visakhapatnam

Key facts

• Vice Admiral Sanjay Bhalla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command (ENC), inaugurated the MILAN Village at the ENC base in Visakhapatnam on Sunday.
• The MILAN Village is set up at the ENC Sailors’ Institute and will serve as the social and cultural hub for Exercise MILAN 2026 and the International Fleet Review.
• The village features stalls from various Indian States and participating foreign navies, displaying traditional handicrafts, artwork and cultural exhibits.
• The International City Parade on RK Beach Road, Visakhapatnam, is scheduled for 19 February 2026 evening with over 70 countries participating.
• Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will attend the parade as chief guest.
• 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 be part of 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.