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INS Sudarshini Docks in Malta on Historic 22,000-Nautical-Mile Global Voyage

The Indian Naval Sail Training Ship INS Sudarshini has arrived at the port of Valletta, Malta, a key stop in its ambitious 22,000-nautical-mile Lokayan-26 expedition. The visit underscores the deep maritime ties between India and Malta, following the ship's transit through the Suez Canal. The Commanding Officer called on India's High Commissioner, who highlighted the voyage as a symbol of maritime cooperation under the MAHASAGAR vision. The crew will engage with the Armed Forces of Malta and host community events before sailing to a maritime festival in France.

Key Points: INS Sudarshini Arrives in Malta on Lokayan-26 Expedition

  • Historic port call in Valletta
  • Part of 22,000-nautical-mile Lokayan-26 expedition
  • Strengthens India-Malta maritime relations
  • Crew to engage in professional interactions
  • Hosting community outreach and "Open Ship"
2 min read

INS Sudarshini arrives in Malta as part of 22,000-nautical-mile "Lokayan-26" expedition

Indian Naval ship INS Sudarshini reaches Valletta, Malta, strengthening maritime ties during its 22,000-nautical-mile Lokayan-26 global voyage.

"powerful symbol of the vision of MAHASAGAR - High Commissioner Rachita Bhandari"

Valletta, March 14

The Indian Naval Sail Training Ship INS Sudarshini has arrived at the historic port of Valletta, Malta, marking a significant milestone in her landmark transoceanic expedition Lokayan-26, according to an official press release by the Ministry of Defence.

The ship arrived in Valletta on 12 March, underscoring the deep-rooted maritime ties between India and Malta. This visit represents an important leg of the ship's ambitious 22,000-nautical-mile global voyage.

The arrival follows a successful transit through the Suez Canal and a recent port call at Alexandria.

On arrival, the Commanding Officer called on Rachita Bhandari, High Commissioner of India to the Republic of Malta. The press release stated that the interaction highlighted the role played by the Indian Navy in strengthening the bilateral relationship between the two nations.

The High Commissioner noted that the presence of INS Sudarshini in Malta serves as a powerful symbol of the vision of MAHASAGAR, reinforcing maritime cooperation while fostering people-to-people connections.

During the visit, the ship's crew will engage in professional interactions and courtesy calls with the Armed Forces of Malta, further promoting mutual trust and interoperability.

The press release added that the ship will also host community outreach activities, including a guided "Open Ship" for schoolchildren and members of the Indian diaspora in Malta.

INS Sudarshini is currently in the second month of her voyage, which commenced at Kochi on 20 January.

Following the visit to Malta, the ship will sail towards the French coast to participate in the Escale a Sète maritime festival. As the press release noted, she will proudly represent India alongside some of the world's most celebrated tall ships.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
A 22,000-nautical-mile voyage is no small feat. Hats off to the crew! It's heartening to see our Navy not just as a defensive force but also as an ambassador of our culture and diplomacy. Safe sailing ahead!
R
Rahul R
While I appreciate the diplomatic outreach, I hope the substantial resources for such a long expedition are justified with clear strategic outcomes, not just symbolic port calls. The Navy's primary role is security.
S
Sarah B
As someone living abroad, seeing news like this about an Indian ship in Malta makes me so proud. It connects us back home. I hope the diaspora event is a great success!
A
Aditya G
MAHASAGAR vision in action! Strengthening ties with smaller but strategically located nations like Malta is very smart. The Suez transit shows our capability for long-range, global naval presence. Good step.
M
Meera T
Love that it's a sail training ship! It promotes sustainable practices and traditional seamanship alongside modern diplomacy. Representing India at the French maritime festival will be a beautiful sight. All the best to the crew!

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