Indian Navy’s sail training ship, INS Sudarshini, arrived at Livorno, Italy, on 9 September 2026, as part of the ongoing transoceanic expedition, Lokayan 2026. The ship has sailed over 17400 nautical miles across 10 countries during the deployment, carrying forward India’s maritime traditions and spirit of friendship across the seas.

En route to Livorno, INS Sudarshini conducted a Passage Exercise with the Italian Navy’s sail training ship ITS Palinuro in the Mediterranean Sea. The joint evolution involved coordinated manoeuvring and sail-handling drills, providing an opportunity for the crews of the two sailing ships to interact and exchange professional expertise.

Livorno, home to the prestigious Italian Naval Academy (Accademia Navale), provides an opportunity for further professional engagement between the two navies. During the port call, cross-deck visits and interactions between Indian trainees and Italian cadets were undertaken and the ship remained open to visitors.

INS Sudarshini, set sail from Livorno, Italy, on 12 September 2026 on completion of a successful port call. During her stay, the ship participated in a series of professional interactions and cross-training visits, strengthening bonds of friendship and maritime partnership between the two nations.

Admiral Giuseppe Berutti Bergotto, Chief of the Italian Navy, visited INS Sudarshini and interacted with the ship’s crew and trainees. He was briefed on the ship’s voyage and training activities. The Commanding Officer, INS Sudarshini, called on Rear Admiral Alberto Tarabotto, Commandant, Italian Naval Academy, and shared experiences from the ongoing expedition. Interactions were also held with Luca Salvetti, Mayor of Livorno, and Edoardo Lombardi, Vice Prefect of Livorno.

As part of the training exchanges, Indian sea trainees visited ITS Virginio Fasan and the Italian Naval Academy, while Italian naval personnel visited INS Sudarshini, fostering professional cooperation and mutual understanding. A deck reception was hosted onboard, attended by senior Italian naval officers, local authorities, diplomatic representatives and distinguished guests.