Indian Navy’s sail training ship INS Sudarshini is set to embark on Lokayan 26, a flagship transoceanic sail expedition, on 20 January 2026, marking a major outreach initiative showcasing India’s maritime heritage and seafaring traditions on the global stage.
The 10-month-long expedition will cover over 22,000 nautical miles, with INS Sudarshini scheduled to visit 18 ports across 13 countries. The voyage reflects India’s civilisational ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam—the world as one family—while strengthening maritime cooperation and people-to-people connections across oceans.
A key highlight of Lokayan 26 will be the ship’s participation in two prestigious international tall-ship events: Escale à Sète in France and SAIL 250 in New York, USA. At these global maritime gatherings, INS Sudarshini will represent India’s rich seafaring legacy, traditional navigation practices and naval professionalism.
The expedition will also serve as an intensive training platform, with over 200 trainees from the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard undergoing advanced sail training. The deployment will provide hands-on experience in long-range ocean navigation, traditional seamanship and life aboard a tall ship. Trainees will also interact with counterparts from other navies, promoting professional exchange and long-lasting international camaraderie.
During port visits, INS Sudarshini will engage in maritime partnership activities and training interactions with host nation navies, contributing to stronger naval cooperation and advancing the vision of MAHASAGAR—mutual and holistic advancement for security and growth across regions.
INS Sudarshini, the Indian Navy’s second sail training ship, has already sailed over 1,40,000 nautical miles. Through Lokayan 26, the ship continues to serve as a symbol of India’s maritime capability, goodwill and commitment to building bridges of trust and cooperation worldwide.
