INS Sudarshini arrives in Lisbon, carrying message of friendship
Lisbon, Aug 23
The Indian Navy's Sail Training Ship INS Sudarshini arrived in Lisbon, marking its 15th port call in seven months, the Ministry of Defence announced on Sunday.
"The Indian Navy's sail training ship, INS Sudarshini, arrived at Lisbon, Portugal on 22 Aug 2026, as part of her ongoing Lokayan 26 transoceanic expedition. The three-masted barque made a grand entry through the Tagus River, showcasing traditional sailing and seamanship skills," a Ministry statement said.
During the port call, the ship's crew and trainees will participate in professional exchanges, cross-deck visits, and cultural engagements with Portuguese naval leadership, local authorities, and the Indian diaspora.
"The visit to Lisbon marks the ship's 15th port visit in seven months of voyage, reaffirming India's enduring maritime connect and spirit of goodwill across the globe. As part of Lokayan 26, INS Sudarshini continues to carry the message of friendship, cooperation and camaraderie, strengthening bonds with partner nations," it added.
Last week, INS Sudarshini concluded its port call at Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel Island - the capital of the Azores archipelago of Portugal.
"The port call witnessed professional and cultural engagements with the Portuguese Navy, strengthening maritime cooperation and camaraderie between the two navies," the ministry said.
A formal deck reception was hosted onboard the Portuguese Navy's sail training vessel, NRP Sagres. This was followed by a reciprocal evening deck reception onboard INS Sudarshini for local military leadership, diplomats and members of the Indian diaspora.
"The ship also celebrated India's 80th Independence Day at Ponta Delgada on 15 Aug 2026. The ship was dressed overall, and a Colours ceremony was held to mark the occasion with pride and patriotism," the statement added.
Earlier in August, INS Sudarshini entered Portuguese waters following a 19-day trans-Atlantic passage from the United States, marking yet another milestone in the Lokayan 26 deployment.
"INS Sudarshini entered Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal, on 13 Aug 26, following a 19-day trans-Atlantic passage from Boston, marking another milestone in the Lokayan 26 deployment and reinforcing the enduring maritime partnership between India and Portugal," the Indian Navy stated on X.
— IANS
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