Did the Indian Navy’s Sudarshini Complete its Oman Port Call?
Synopsis
The Indian Navy’s sail training ship INS Sudarshini recently marked a significant milestone by concluding its first port call in Salalah, Oman. This visit not only showcased India’s maritime heritage but also strengthened the historic ties between India and Oman, engaging over 600 visitors in a vibrant cultural exchange.
Key Takeaways
INS Sudarshini concluded its first port call at Salalah, Oman .
Over 600 visitors were welcomed aboard, showcasing India's maritime culture.
The visit emphasized the historic ties between India and Oman.
INS Sudarshini is part of the Lokayan 26 trans-oceanic voyage.
The ship aims to cover 22,000 nautical miles in total.
New Delhi, Feb 8 (NationPress) The historic maritime connections between India and Oman were highlighted as the Indian Navy’s sail training vessel INS Sudarshini wrapped up its inaugural port call at Salalah, Oman, according to official reports released on Sunday.
In a lively demonstration of community engagement, the sail training vessel welcomed over 600 visitors, including schoolchildren, who gained valuable insights into the three-masted barque and the intricacies of ocean navigation, as noted in a statement from the Ministry of Defence.
This visit, which concluded on Thursday, was a significant achievement in the ship’s ambitious 10-month trans-oceanic journey dubbed 'Lokayan 26'. The mission aims to showcase India’s rich maritime heritage and promote the ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (The World is One Family) globally.
During the stay, the Commanding Officer of INS Sudarshini engaged with Captain Mohammad Al Ghailani, the Southern Naval Area Commander of the Royal Navy of Oman (RNO), and Captain Mohammad Al Mahari, the Commanding Officer of RNO Vessel Al Moazer, as per the statement.
These discussions underscored the long-standing maritime ties between India and Oman, strengthening the Bridges of Friendship between the two naval forces. Continuing this professional collaboration, the ship also conducted guided tours for officers from the Royal Navy of Oman.
INS Sudarshini is now set to embark on the next phase of Lokayan 26, furthering India’s enduring maritime legacy across global waters. With sails unfurled and enthusiasm soaring, the vessel remains a beacon of maritime excellence, camaraderie, and goodwill, as stated.
Oman marked the first international port on INS Sudarshini’s Lokayan 26 journey, which commenced from Naval Base, Kochi, on January 20.
The sail training vessel aims to traverse a total distance of 22,000 nautical miles. The Lokayan-26 expedition is designed for the training of Indian Navy cadets and to foster maritime goodwill across the world.
The vessel was crafted by a British naval architect and constructed in Goa.
Point of View
The voyage of INS Sudarshini symbolizes India's enduring maritime legacy and strengthens diplomatic and cultural ties with Oman. This engagement not only enhances naval cooperation but also fosters goodwill and mutual understanding, crucial for regional stability.
NationPress
2 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How many visitors toured INS Sudarshini in Oman?
Over 600 visitors, including schoolchildren, toured INS Sudarshini during its port call in Salalah, Oman.
What is the significance of the visit to Oman?
The visit to Oman highlights the historic maritime links between India and Oman, strengthening the friendship between the two navies.
What is the total distance planned for the Lokayan 26 journey?
The INS Sudarshini aims to cover a total distance of 22,000 nautical miles during the Lokayan 26 journey.
Where was INS Sudarshini built?
INS Sudarshini was designed by a UK naval architect and built in Goa, India.
