The Indian Navy’s sail training ship concludes its port visit with professional exchanges and sporting engagements with the Royal Navy of Oman, strengthening bilateral maritime ties
The Indian Navy’s three-masted sail training ship INS Sudarshini has departed Salalah, Oman, after a port visit from October 14 to 17, continuing its 10-month transoceanic deployment under Lokayan-2026.
According to the Indian Ministry of Defence, the visit featured professional interactions and sporting engagements between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman. The activities helped strengthen professional ties, foster camaraderie and reinforce longstanding friendship between the two maritime forces.
The port call also highlighted the role of naval cooperation in promoting people-to-people connections and advancing maritime diplomacy between India and Oman, which share longstanding historical and seafaring links.
-
INS Sudarshini’s deployment, which began in January 2026, is designed to develop seamanship, resilience, navigation skills and leadership among naval trainees through extended sailing across international waters
-
The voyage also showcases India’s maritime heritage and promotes cooperation with partner countries
The ship’s visit to Salalah was particularly significant as the Omani port had also hosted its first international stop during the Lokayan-2026 voyage in February.
During the October visit, INS Sudarshini also welcomed more than 500 members of the Indian community, including children and teachers from Indian School Salalah, offering visitors an opportunity to learn about life aboard a naval sailing vessel and the ship’s ongoing expedition.
As the deployment enters its tenth month, INS Sudarshini continues to serve as a maritime ambassador for India, building goodwill and strengthening international partnerships.
The voyage reflects the Indian ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, meaning “the world is one family”, and supports India’s MAHASAGAR vision — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions — which emphasises shared progress, regional security and maritime cooperation.
Through Lokayan-2026, the Indian Navy is combining practical training for its personnel with diplomatic engagement, reinforcing India’s commitment to a cooperative and secure maritime environment.
