INS Sudarshini to set sail on 10-month global expedition ‘Lokayan 26’ from January 20
New Delhi, January 19. The Indian Navy’s sail training ship INS Sudarshini will embark on Lokayan 26, a flagship 10-month transoceanic voyage, on January 20, 2026, marking a major outreach initiative showcasing India’s maritime heritage and global maritime engagement.
During the expedition, the ship will cover more than 22,000 nautical miles and visit 18 foreign ports across 13 countries. The voyage is inspired by India’s civilisational ethos of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ and aims to project the country’s seafaring traditions and spirit of international cooperation across the world’s oceans.
A major highlight of the deployment will be INS Sudarshini’s participation in two renowned international tall-ship events – Escale à Sète in France and SAIL 250 in New York. At both events, the Indian Navy vessel will represent India’s long-standing maritime legacy and traditional seamanship on a global platform.
More than 200 trainees from the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard will undergo rigorous sail training during the voyage. The deployment will provide hands-on experience in long-range ocean navigation, traditional seamanship, and life aboard a tall ship, while also enabling professional interaction with trainees from other navies.
In addition to training, INS Sudarshini will engage in joint interactions and maritime partnership activities with the navies of host countries, contributing to enhanced maritime cooperation and supporting the vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions). The voyage is also expected to serve as an important instrument of cultural diplomacy, reinforcing the Indian Navy’s commitment to building trust and cooperation among nations.
INS Sudarshini, the Indian Navy’s second sail training ship, has logged over 1.40 lakh nautical miles so far. With Lokayan 26, the vessel continues to act as a symbol of India’s maritime capability, professionalism, and goodwill on the international stage.
