This journey will include visits to 18 international ports in 13 nations, marking it as one of the most comprehensive sail training missions undertaken by the Indian Navy in recent times. Officials highlighted that this expedition is part of ongoing initiatives to showcase India’s maritime legacy and enhance professional relationships with allied navies around the globe, as mentioned in their statement.
INS Sudarshini Lokayan 26 mission: Planned activities
The itinerary for INS Sudarshini features participation in two significant international tall-ship events. The vessel will join Escale à Sète in France and SAIL 250 in New York, which gather historic sailing ships and training vessels from navies worldwide.
ALSO READ | India’s hand-stitched vessel INSV Kaundinya retraces ancient maritime routes, reaches Oman
During its port calls, INS Sudarshini will showcase India’s traditional seafaring practices and its legacy in sail training. The ship is expected to engage in outreach activities and professional exchanges with other participants, according to the statement.
Training opportunity for Navy and Coast Guard cadets
Over 200 trainees from the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard will partake in this deployment. The program aims to offer practical experience in long-range navigation, watchkeeping, and traditional sailing techniques.
Life aboard a tall ship is challenging. Extended sea periods, minimal automation, and a dependence on wind conditions are integral to the training experience. The deployment will also facilitate interactions with foreign naval counterparts, providing avenues for informal education and professional sharing.
Maritime partnerships and collaborations
In addition to training, INS Sudarshini will engage in maritime partnership activities with host nations during port visits. These engagements align with India’s broader maritime cooperation frameworks, including the MAHASAGAR initiative.
Officials emphasized that such deployments aim to strengthen operational familiarity, build trust, and enhance coordination with both regional and global maritime allies.
About INS Sudarshini
Commissioned as the second sail training ship of the Indian Navy, INS Sudarshini has successfully navigated over 140,000 nautical miles on previous missions. With Lokayan 26, the vessel reinforces its role as a platform for training, outreach, and sustained naval presence.
The expedition is expected to conclude later in 2026 after fulfilling its planned port visits and training goals.
(Edited by : Sudarsanan Mani)
First Published: Jan 20, 2026 11:14 AM IST
