Indian Navy’s sail training ship INS Sudarshini departed Livorno, Italy, on 12 September after a successful port call as part of Lokayan 2026, further strengthening maritime cooperation and professional ties between the Indian and Italian navies.
During the port visit, the ship’s crew and trainees participated in a series of professional interactions, cross-training activities and naval engagements, providing an opportunity to exchange operational experiences and enhance mutual understanding.
Admiral Giuseppe Berutti Bergotto, Chief of the Italian Navy, visited INS Sudarshini and interacted with the crew and trainees. He was briefed on the ship’s ongoing voyage and training activities. The Commanding Officer of INS Sudarshini also called on Rear Admiral Alberto Tarabotto, Commandant of the Italian Naval Academy, and exchanged views on the ongoing training expedition.
The ship’s visit also included engagements with Luca Salvetti, Mayor of Livorno, and Edoardo Lombardi, Vice Prefect of Livorno, highlighting the wider people-to-people and institutional ties between India and Italy.
As part of the cross-training programme, Indian naval trainees visited ITS Virginio Fasan and the Italian Naval Academy, while Italian naval personnel visited INS Sudarshini. The exchanges provided valuable exposure to each other’s naval training practices and fostered greater professional camaraderie.
A deck reception was also hosted onboard INS Sudarshini, bringing together senior Italian naval officers, local authorities, diplomatic representatives and distinguished guests.
With the completion of the Livorno port call, INS Sudarshini has resumed her voyage under Lokayan 2026, carrying forward India’s maritime outreach and naval diplomacy. The deployment also reflects the Indian Navy’s commitment to the vision of MAHASAGAR — Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions — and to building stronger maritime partnerships across the globe.
