INS Sudarshini Departs Alexandria After Strengthening Naval Ties with Egypt
The Indian Navys INS Sudarshini has completed its port call in Alexandria, enhancing naval cooperation with Egypt through training and cultural exchanges.
Alexandria, September 27 (Daily Kiran) : The Indian Navy’s sail training ship, INS Sudarshini, has completed its port call in Alexandria, Egypt, and is now on its way to the next destination. The visit included cross-training exercises, professional discussions, and cultural events with the Egyptian Navy.
During its stay at the Alexandria port, INS Sudarshini hosted India’s Ambassador to Egypt, Suresh Reddy, along with several local dignitaries. The ship arrived in Alexandria on September 23 as part of its ‘Lokayan-26’ maritime campaign, marking its second visit to the port.
The Indian Navy reported that joint training sessions, professional dialogues, and cultural programs were conducted during the port call, strengthening friendship and mutual understanding between the two navies.
The Lokayan-26 campaign began on January 20 from Kochi. Throughout the journey, INS Sudarshini will cover approximately 22,000 nautical miles, visiting 18 ports across 13 countries. So far, the ship has traversed the Arabian Sea, Red Sea, and Mediterranean Sea, successfully navigating the Suez Canal and participating in a prestigious maritime festival in France. It also crossed the Atlantic Ocean, reaching Antigua on May 27.
Since departing from Kochi, the ship has covered 10,000 nautical miles. Trainees onboard have gained practical experience in long sea voyages, traditional sailing, and ship operations at sea.
During the expedition, the trainees have acquired extensive knowledge in long-distance maritime navigation and traditional sailing skills. The Mediterranean route has provided hands-on experience in operating the ship in open waters and managing sails.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Defence, “Lokayan-26 symbolizes the Indian Navy’s ongoing commitment to professional training, maritime engagement, and strengthening bonds of friendship and cooperation with partner nations. Through this deployment, INS Sudarshini has served as a floating ambassador of India’s rich maritime heritage, conveying the message of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ across the seas and promoting mutual and holistic progress for security and development in maritime domains.”
