The Indian Navy’s Sail Training Ship INS Sudarshini is set to embark on a 10-month transoceanic voyage under the flagship expedition Lokayan 26, beginning January 20, aimed at showcasing India’s maritime heritage while strengthening international naval cooperation.
During the expedition, INS Sudarshini will sail over 22,000 nautical miles, visiting 18 ports across 13 countries, reflecting India’s seafaring legacy and the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam across the oceans.
A major highlight of the deployment will be the ship’s participation in two prestigious international tall-ship events – Escale à Sète in France and SAIL 250 in New York, United States – where INS Sudarshini will represent India’s maritime traditions on the global stage.
More than 200 trainees from the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard will undergo intensive sail training during the voyage, gaining hands-on experience in long-range ocean navigation and traditional seamanship. The expedition will expose trainees to the challenges of life aboard a tall ship and provide opportunities to interact with counterparts from foreign navies, fostering professional exchange and enduring bonds of friendship.
INS Sudarshini will also engage in training interactions and maritime partnership activities with the navies of the countries it visits, strengthening cooperation and advancing India’s maritime outreach under the vision of MAHASAGAR.
The voyage is also expected to serve as an instrument of cultural diplomacy, reinforcing the Indian Navy’s commitment to building bridges of cooperation, goodwill and mutual trust among nations.
INS Sudarshini, the Indian Navy’s second sail training ship, has already covered over 1.4 lakh nautical miles. Through Lokayan 26, the vessel continues to serve as a symbol of India’s maritime capability, professionalism and global goodwill.
