Archive · 21 Jan 2026
INS Sudarshini embarks on global expedition
The Indian Navy's sail training ship, INS Sudarshini, has started a big trip around the world called Lokayan 26.
This trip will last 10 months and the ship will travel 22,000 nautical miles, visiting 18 ports in 13 different countries.
The ship was sent off by Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena from the Kochi naval base.
During the trip, INS Sudarshini will take part in special events like a maritime festival in France and celebrations for the USA's 250th Independence Day in New York.
The ship is like an ambassador for India, showing off the country's skills in sailing and navigation.
It was built in India and has big sails that help it move using the wind.
The trip is also about making friends with other countries and sharing India's vision for working together in the oceans.
INS Sudarshini, a 54-meter sail training ship, embarked on a 10-month transoceanic expedition called Lokayan 26.
The ship will traverse 22,000 nautical miles, visiting 18 ports in 13 countries.
Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena flagged off the vessel from the Kochi naval base, emphasizing its role as India's 'ambassador at large.'
Key events include participation in Escale à Sète in France and Sail 250 in New York for the USA's 250th Independence Day celebrations.
The ship, built by Goa Shipyard Limited, offers a platform for sea trainees to develop seamanship and navigation skills.
- Who
- INS Sudarshini, Indian Navy, Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena
- What
- Transoceanic expedition (Lokayan 26)
- When
- Commenced on January 20
- Where
- Starting from Kochi naval base, visiting 18 ports in 13 countries
- Why
- To showcase India's maritime prominence and forge international friendships
- Ship Name
- INS Sudarshini
- Expedition Name
- Lokayan 26
- Duration
- 10 months
- Distance
- 22,000 nautical miles
- Ports Visited
- 18 ports in 13 countries
- Key Events
- Escale à Sète in France, Sail 250 in New York
- Builder
- Goa Shipyard Limited
- Ship Specifications
- 54-m sail training ship with 20 sails covering 1,000 square metres
