DAILY NEWS ANALYSIS

13 March, 2026
4 Min Read

INS Sudarshini

The INS Sudarshini will undertake the flagship voyage of Lokayan 26, a 10-month transoceanic expedition covering over 22,000 nautical miles and visiting multiple international ports. The expedition highlights India’s maritime heritage, naval training, and international engagement.

About INS Sudarshini

INS Sudarshini is an indigenously built Sail Training Ship (STS) of the Indian Navy.

It was built by Goa Shipyard Limited.
The ship is based at Kochi under the Southern Naval Command.
It was commissioned on 27 January 2012.

The primary purpose of sail training ships is to train naval cadets and sailors in traditional seamanship skills, helping them understand navigation, survival at sea, and handling ships in difficult weather conditions.

Features of INS Sudarshini

1. Three-Masted Barque

INS Sudarshini is a three-masted barque, a traditional sailing vessel design used for long-distance ocean voyages.

2. Dual Mode Operation

The ship can operate either under sail or with engine power, giving it operational flexibility during long voyages.

3. High Endurance

It has high endurance, allowing it to remain deployed at sea continuously for up to 20 days.

Lokayan 26 Expedition

Nature of the Expedition

The Lokayan 26 is a 10-month long maritime voyage undertaken by INS Sudarshini.

Route and Coverage

The ship will sail over 22,000 nautical miles.
It will visit 18 foreign ports across 13 countries.

Participation in International Events

During the voyage, the ship will participate in global tall-ship festivals such as:

Escale à Sète in France
SAIL 250 in New York City, United States

Training Component

Cadets from the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard will undergo intensive sail training, gaining experience in long-range ocean navigation and maritime operations.

Significance

The Lokayan 26 expedition will:

Promote maritime diplomacy and international cooperation.
Showcase India’s naval heritage and shipbuilding capabilities.
Provide practical sea training for naval and coast guard trainees.
Strengthen India’s presence in global maritime events.

Source: INDIAN EXPRESS

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