Indian Navy welcomes INS Sudarshini to Kochi after Lokayan 26 expedition
The ship completed a 10-month transoceanic voyage covering more than 22,000 nautical miles across various oceans.
The Indian Navy held a ceremonial welcome for INS Sudarshini on Monday, November 2, in Kochi following the conclusion of the Lokayan 26 expedition. According to The Hindu, the ship returned after a 10-month transoceanic sailing mission.
The vessel received a water cannon salute and music from the Naval Band to mark its return. Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, presided over the Flag-in Ceremony.
The Lokayan 26 mission began in Kochi on January 20, 2026, and covered over 22,000 nautical miles. The voyage included 17 port calls across 11 countries in Asia, Europe, Africa, and North America.
The Navy stated that the deployment involved two transatlantic crossings and sailing through different maritime environments. These passages provided exposure to the difficulties of long-distance ocean sailing.
Major highlights of the mission included professional interactions and training exchanges. These activities involved the Royal Moroccan Navy, Portuguese Navy, Italian Navy, Egyptian Navy, and Spanish Navy.