New Delhi | July 31, 2026
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh felicitated the nine women officers from the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force who successfully completed India’s first-ever all-women tri-service circumnavigation sailing expedition, ‘Samudra Pradakshina’, onboard the Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni.
During the interaction in New Delhi, Singh lauded the team for their extraordinary grit, courage, and mental resilience, noting that the historic voyage shatters long-standing gender stereotypes in military operations. Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, and other senior tri-service leadership were present at the event.
Expedition Highlights & Milestones
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Vessel: Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni
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Crew: 9 women officers (representing the Army, Navy, and Air Force)
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Duration & Distance: 314 days | Covering nearly 25,500 nautical miles across four oceans
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Route & Feats: Crossed the Equator twice, traversed all meridians of longitude, crossed the International Date Line, and successfully rounded the Three Great Capes (Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn, and the Cape of Good Hope).
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Global Recognition: Passage through the perilous Drake Passage and rounding of Cape Horn inducted the crew into the prestigious fraternity of Cape Horners.
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Diplomatic Impact: Served as a pillar of military diplomacy, showcasing indigenous capabilities, maritime heritage, and national goodwill during international port calls.
