Air Chief interacts with IASV Triveni crew; commends their courage
New Delhi, July 28
Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh interacted with the nine-member crew of IASV Triveni on Tuesday.
The crew comprised four women officers from the IAF, four from the Indian Army, and one from the Indian Navy. They successfully completed Samudra Pradakshina, the historic tri-service all-women circumnavigation sailing expedition.
During the expedition, the crew sailed nearly 25,500 nautical miles across four oceans in 314 days. ACM Singh congratulated them on their landmark achievement, commending their courage, resilience, professionalism, and exemplary tri-service spirit.
The expedition was flagged in on July 22, 2026, through video conferencing by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. It had been virtually flagged off by the Defence Minister on September 11, 2025, from Mumbai.
After flagging off the expedition, Singh described it as a testament to India's Nari Shakti, a symbol of the nation's resolve, proof of tri-service synergy and jointness, and a celebration of 'New India' that overcomes challenges to script history.
The success of the mission was made possible through meticulous planning, nearly two years of intensive training, a dedicated 24x7 shore-based support network, and the commitment of numerous organisations and support agencies.
The expedition fulfilled all internationally recognised criteria for circumnavigation by crossing all meridians of longitude, crossing the Equator twice, crossing the International Date Line, and rounding the Three Great Capes, Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn, and the Cape of Good Hope.
The successful passage through the formidable Drake Passage and rounding of Cape Horn earned the crew membership of the prestigious fraternity of Cape Horners, an honour reserved for sailors who conquer one of the world's most demanding maritime passages.
The Defence Minister commended the courage and determination of the crew, stating that the expedition proved human courage is greater than any storm.
"Ocean waves may rise high, but the spirit of India's daughters soars higher," he said, highlighting that women are creating opportunities, leading from the front, and writing their names in history.
The expedition showcased the strength of integrated planning, seamless interoperability, and shared leadership.
Living, training, and sailing together for over ten months, the crew functioned as one cohesive team, demonstrating that jointness is not merely an organisational concept but a force multiplier that enhances operational effectiveness and national capability, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Incredible to see women from IAF, Army, and Navy sailing together as one team. This is what jointness looks like in action. And to navigate the Drake Passage and round Cape Horn—wow. These women are heroes. 🙌
As an American, I have to say this is truly impressive. Circumnavigating the globe is no small feat, and doing it with a tri-service all-women crew shows India's commitment to gender equality in the military. Well done!
My daughter is in school and she asked me today if women can be in the Navy. I showed her this article and her eyes lit up! This expedition is inspiring the next generation. Thank you to the crew and the Defence Minister for supporting this. 🚢✨
I served in the US Navy for 20 years and I know how tough long-duration sailing can be. To do it with a mixed crew from three different services and include women in such a demanding role—that takes real planning and grit. Respect.
Ekdum zabardast! But I hope the government also focuses on better equipment and infrastructure for our armed forces. Celebrations are good, but real progress needs more support on the ground. Still, a huge congratulations to the crew! 👏
S Sarah B