INS Sudarshini participates in maritime spectacle in US for 250th anniversary

New Delhi, Indian Navy's sail training ship -- INS Sudarshini -- carrying the tricolour proudly sailed into the New York port and past the Statue of Liberty on July 4, joining vessels from the US and several other countries for a grand nautical event marking the 250th anniversary of the US' independence.

The ship's presence in the International Naval Review and Sail 4th 250 celebrations hosted by America, also reflects the "enduring friendship, mutual respect, and expanding maritime partnership between India and the United States", the Indian Navy said on Sunday.

America commemorated 250 years of its independence on July 4 with grand celebrations held in Washington and parallel events across the country.


On July 4, 1776, the Second Continental Congress had unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence, the founding document of America.

The US, being a maritime nation, has also marked the milestone with the grand event -- International Naval Review and Sail 4th 250.

It is a "historic, once-in-a-lifetime gathering of the largest fleet of US and international ships and aircraft in honour of America's 250th birthday", according to the Freedom250's official website.

The International Naval Review showcases America's unrivalled maritime superiority, global leadership, and enduring partnerships through the United States Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard, it says.

"The celebration will also feature the largest-ever flotilla of tall ships from around the world, with vessels representing more than 20 nations creating a breathtaking nautical spectacle across New York Harbour," says the website, according to which the event will be held from July 4-8.

The show in the waters was complemented by an aerial display as US jets streamed across the New York sky, leaving a trail in red, white and blue, as a large number of spectators witnessed the event from the shores, and it was also watched online.

INS Sudarshini sailed into the New York port on July 4 to represent India at the International Naval Review and Sail 4th 250 celebrations of the US, a spokesperson of the Indian Navy said.

"During the spectacular Parade of Sail along the Hudson river, the iconic three-masted barque proudly flew the Indian tricolour, celebrating India's rich maritime heritage and centuries-old seafaring traditions," the official said.

The visit is part of the ship's 10-month transoceanic expedition, Lokayan 2026, which reflects the Indian Navy's commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation, building international goodwill and deepening engagement with partner navies.

After successful participation in Sail 250 events at Norfolk, Virginia and Baltimore, Maryland in the US ahead of arriving in New York, INS Sudarshini is now berthed at Brooklyn for the Sail 4th celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of the US.

Set against the iconic New York skyline, INS Sudarshini stands as a proud symbol of India's maritime legacy, the spokesperson said.

"The port call represents more than a journey across the Atlantic. It reflects the enduring friendship, mutual respect, and expanding maritime partnership between India and the United States," the Indian Navy official added.

From the vast waters of the Atlantic to the historic harbour of New York, INS Sudarshini continues to strengthen maritime ties, carrying forward India's seafaring traditions while promoting friendship and cooperation across the oceans of the world, the spokesperson said.

The ship arrived in Baltimore on June 26.

Prior to arriving in Baltimore, INS Sudarshini participated in Sail 250 Virginia celebrations at Norfolk from June 19-23, joining tall ships from across the world, and representing India in the Parade of Sail and the City Crew Parade, the Indian Navy earlier said.

America has hosted a series of events across the US and in other countries, including India, as part of the anniversary celebration under the banner of 'Freedom 250'.