New Delhi: The Indian Navy’s sail training ship INS Sudarshini made its first international port call in Oman at the Port of Salalah, marking a significant milestone in India’s maritime diplomacy.
This visit, part of the ship’s ongoing Lokayan 26 voyage, highlights India’s aim to foster deep maritime cooperation and strategic partnership with friendly nations like Oman. The port call also strengthens peoples’ engagement through training activities and cultural outreach.
INS Sudarshini: Historic Arrival at Salalah, Oman
On 2 February 2026, INS Sudarshini docked at Salalah Port, Oman, completing the first leg of its transoceanic expedition, Lokayan 26. This visit marks the first overseas port call on this flagship voyage, symbolizing India’s commitment to maritime ties beyond its shores.
The expedition set sail from Naval Base Kochi on 20 January 2026 and is expected to span 10 months, covering approximately 22,000 nautical miles and visiting 18 ports across 13 countries.
Lokayan 26: More Than a Training Voyage
INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 is not just a long-distance sailing mission — it’s a blend of professional training, cultural exchange, and maritime diplomacy.
- The voyage showcases India’s rich seafaring heritage.
- It provides practical sail training to Indian naval trainees.
- It creates opportunities for professional interaction with other navies.
The ongoing journey reflects the Indian Navy’s dual focus on training young sailors and reinforcing India’s maritime presence in international waters.
Professional Interaction of INS Sudarshini with Oman’s Royal Navy
During the three-day stay at Salalah, Indian naval personnel will engage in:
- Professional exchanges with the Royal Navy of Oman.
- Training sessions that build technical and traditional seamanship skills.
- Cultural exchanges with local communities.
The ship has been opened for school visits and social engagement, bringing naval awareness to young students and residents in Oman.
INS Sudarshini : A Symbol of India-Oman Strategic Ties
The port call underscores the long-standing strategic partnership between India and Oman. Both countries share strong maritime interests due to their locations along key trade routes in the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean.
Oman is a key pillar in India’s West Asia policy and plays a major role in regional maritime cooperation initiatives. These interactions enhance defense cooperation and reinforce bilateral relations.
About INS Sudarshini
INS Sudarshini is a sail training ship of the Indian Navy, constructed by Goa Shipyard Limited and commissioned in January 2012. These tall ships are part of the Indian Navy’s training fleet, designed to develop seamanship and navigational skills in cadets.
The vessel has a long history of training missions and has covered over 140,000 nautical miles since its commissioning. Its participation in Lokayan 26 further strengthens India’s maritime outreach.
People-to-People Engagement: A Highlight of the Visit
Opening the ship to local visitors and schoolchildren is an intentional move to:
- Encourage youth interest in maritime careers.
- Strengthen cultural understanding.
- Promote goodwill among future generations.
Such outreach activities help build stronger bonds beyond formal naval engagements.
Looking Ahead: Next Phases of Lokayan 26
After Oman, INS Sudarshini will continue its journey to several international ports, participating in cultural and professional exchanges that contribute to maritime cooperation and skill enhancement.
This voyage also embodies the Indian Navy’s philosophy of fostering “Naval Diplomacy through Outreach” across global waters.
Read also: Inside INS Surat: The AI-Driven Warship Changing How the Indian Navy Fights at Sea
