The Indian Navy’s Sail Training Ship INS Sudarshini was formally flagged off for the Lokayan 26 transoceanic expedition on January 20, 2026, from Naval Base, Kochi. The expedition was inaugurated by Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, marking the beginning of a landmark global voyage that highlights India’s maritime heritage, professional naval training, and international outreach.
The ten-month-long expedition stands as a symbol of India’s growing presence in global maritime engagement and the Indian Navy’s commitment to excellence in traditional ocean sailing.
Flag-Off Ceremony Highlights India’s Maritime Diplomacy
The ceremonial flag-off was attended by senior naval officers, members of the naval community, school children, families of the crew, and media representatives. On the occasion, the Lokayan 26 plaque was unveiled by the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (South).
Interacting with the crew, Vice Admiral Saxena described INS Sudarshini as India’s “Ambassador at Large”, emphasizing that the voyage goes beyond geographical boundaries to build “Bridges of Friendship” across nations. The traditional send-off saw the three-masted barque unfurl her sails to the stirring accompaniment of the Naval band, reflecting the rich heritage of naval traditions.
A 10-Month Global Voyage Across 13 Countries
During the ten-month-long deployment, INS Sudarshini will:
-
Sail approximately 22,000 nautical miles
-
Visit 18 ports across 13 countries
-
Engage in international maritime interactions
-
Promote India’s cultural and naval diplomacy
The expedition reflects the spirit of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) and advances India’s maritime vision of MAHASAGAR — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.
Participation in Prestigious Global Maritime Events
A key highlight of Lokayan 26 will be the ship’s participation in globally renowned maritime events:
-
Escale à Sète, France (March–April 2026):
INS Sudarshini will make her debut at one of Europe’s premier maritime festivals, representing India alongside internationally renowned tall ships in the Mediterranean. -
SAIL 250, New York (July 2026):
As part of the United States’ 250th Independence Day celebrations, INS Sudarshini will join the grand International Parade of Sails, further strengthening India’s global maritime presence.
Indigenous Ship Showcases India’s Shipbuilding Excellence
INS Sudarshini is an indigenously built sail training ship, constructed by Goa Shipyard Limited. The vessel reflects India’s growing self-reliance in maritime engineering.
Key features include:
-
Length: 54 metres
-
Rig: Three-masted barque
-
Sail configuration: 20 sails
-
Sail area: Over 1,000 square metres
The ship provides an exceptional platform for sea trainees and officer cadets to master traditional seamanship, leadership, and navigation, guided purely by wind and ocean conditions.
Strengthening Maritime Cooperation and Cultural Diplomacy
As INS Sudarshini sails along ancient trade routes and modern sea lanes, the voyage is positioned not only as a training mission but also as a powerful instrument of:
-
Maritime diplomacy
-
Cultural exchange
-
International cooperation
-
Youth and naval engagement
The expedition reinforces India’s commitment to building global goodwill, mutual trust, and cooperation across oceans.
Conclusion
The flag-off of Lokayan 26 marks a significant milestone in India’s maritime journey. Through training, diplomacy, heritage, and global engagement, INS Sudarshini continues to serve as a floating ambassador of India’s values, professionalism, and seafaring legacy. The voyage embodies the nation’s vision of connected oceans, peaceful cooperation, and sustainable maritime growth.
For more real-time updates, visit Channel 6 Network.
Source: PIB
