INS Sudarshini returns to Kochi after completing 22,000 nautical mile Lokayan 26 voyage

New Delhi: Indian Navy sail training ship INS Sudarshini returned to Kochi on Monday, after completing Lokayan 26, a 10-month transoceanic expedition covering more than 22,000 nautical miles. The voyage included 17 port calls across 11 countries, two transatlantic crossings and participation in major international maritime events.

The ship received a water cannon salute and a ceremonial welcome by the Naval Band, with family members gathering to receive the crew. Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer commanding-in-chief, Southern Naval Command, presided over the flag-in ceremony.

According to the Indian Navy, VAdm Saxena commended the crew’s perseverance, professionalism, resilience and devotion to duty. He said the successful expedition reflected the Navy’s high standards of seamanship, sail training and operational preparedness while showcasing India’s maritime heritage and commitment to international maritime cooperation.

Flagged off from Kochi on January 20, the expedition took INS Sudarshini across Asia, Europe, Africa and North America, navigating diverse ocean conditions while providing practical training to young naval officers.

A major highlight was the ship’s participation in the Escale a Sete maritime heritage festival in France, where traditional sailing vessels from different countries assembled to showcase their seafaring traditions.

The vessel also participated in SAIL 250 and the International Naval Review in the United States during celebrations marking 250 years of American independence. It visited Norfolk, Baltimore, New York and Boston as part of the commemorative events.

Among the expedition’s significant achievements was a 2,200 nautical-mile transatlantic passage completed over 18 days exclusively under sail, according to the Navy’s latest statement. The Navy described it as the longest sail-only passage during the deployment, highlighting the crew’s endurance and ability to navigate challenging weather and sea conditions.

The voyage also facilitated professional interactions, training exchanges and cross-training activities with the Royal Moroccan, Portuguese, Italian, Egyptian and Spanish navies. Visits aboard INS Sudarshini and interactions with the Indian diaspora during international port calls helped showcase India’s maritime heritage and strengthen goodwill.

During its Mediterranean deployment, INS Sudarshini conducted a passage exercise with Italian Navy sail training ship ITS Palinuro, involving coordinated manoeuvring and sail-handling drills, according to an earlier defence ministry statement.

The expedition’s primary objective remained sail training. Young officer trainees gained hands-on experience in ocean navigation, watchkeeping, sail handling, rigging, meteorological assessment and shipboard operations, developing practical skills essential for extended deployments.

Built by Goa Shipyard limited and commissioned in January 2012, INS Sudarshini is a 54 metre, three-masted sailing vessel equipped with 20 sails. The Navy had planned training opportunities for more than 200 Indian Navy and Coast Guard personnel during the expedition.

The ship’s final overseas port call was at Salalah, Oman, from October 14 to 17, where it engaged with the Royal Navy of Oman and hosted members of the Indian diaspora.

Through port visits and maritime exchanges, the deployment advanced India’s Mahasagar vision – Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions – and the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning the world is one family.

The Navy said the expedition reinforced its commitment to professional training, maritime partnerships and promoting India’s seafaring heritage internationally.