Indian Navy’s sail training ship INS Sudarshini concluded its port call at Ponta Delgada in the Azores on August 16 as part of Lokayan 2026, strengthening maritime cooperation and professional ties between the Indian and Portuguese navies.
The port call featured a series of professional and cultural engagements with the Portuguese Navy aimed at enhancing maritime cooperation and camaraderie between the two navies.
A formal deck reception was hosted onboard the Portuguese Navy’s sail training vessel NRP Sagres. This was followed by a reciprocal evening deck reception hosted onboard INS Sudarshini for local military leadership, diplomats and members of the Indian diaspora.
INS Sudarshini celebrates Independence Day
INS Sudarshini also marked India’s 80th Independence Day at Ponta Delgada on August 15.
The ship was dressed overall for the occasion and conducted a Colours ceremony, marking the national celebration with pride and patriotism.
Following the completion of its port call, INS Sudarshini has sailed for Lisbon.
Joint naval exercise planned with NRP Sagres
INS Sudarshini and NRP Sagres are scheduled to conduct a joint Passing Exercise (PASSEX) at sea on August 21.
The exercise will feature coordinated sailing manoeuvres and communication drills and is aimed at further enhancing interoperability and maritime cooperation between the Indian and Portuguese navies.
The engagements during Lokayan 2026 underline the continued efforts of the two navies to strengthen professional cooperation and maritime camaraderie.
