Archive · 22 Jul 2026
Women complete first-ever all-women circumnavigation expedition
A group of nine women officers from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force completed a big sailing trip around the world.
They sailed for 314 days and covered a huge distance of 25,500 nautical miles across four oceans.
They rounded three major capes and even crossed the Equator twice.
The Defense Minister of India, Rajnath Singh, praised their bravery and determination.
This trip was not just about sailing; it was also about showing that women in the military are strong and capable.
It was a big achievement for India and a step towards gender equality in the military.
Nine women officers from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force completed a 314-day circumnavigation expedition.
The expedition covered 25,500 nautical miles across four oceans and rounded three major capes.
The expedition was flagged-off on September 11, 2025, and completed on a date not specified in the article.
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh praised the crew's bravery and determination, highlighting the expedition's significance in promoting gender equality and military diplomacy.
The expedition showcased the strength of integrated planning, seamless interoperability, and shared leadership among the three services.
- Who
- Nine women officers from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force
- What
- First-ever all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition
- When
- Flagged-off on September 11, 2025; completed on a date not specified in the article
- Where
- Started and ended in Mumbai, traversed four oceans
- Why
- To showcase India's unity, military capabilities, and promote gender equality in the military
Military Diplomacy
Gender Equality in Military
Purpose of the Expedition
Military Diplomacy
The expedition served as an instrument of military diplomacy, showcasing India's capabilities and unity.
Gender Equality in Military
The expedition highlighted the capabilities and determination of women in the military, promoting gender equality.
- Expedition Name
- Samudra Pradakshina
- Duration
- 314 days
- Distance Covered
- 25,500 nautical miles
- Oceans Traversed
- Four oceans
- Key Capes Rounded
- Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn, Cape of Good Hope
- Flag-in Ceremony
- Mumbai
- Flag-off Date
- September 11, 2025
- Vessel Used
- Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni