Indian Armed Forces’ All-Women Team To Circumnavigate Globe On IASV Triveni From September 11
IASV Triveni sets sail with 10 women officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, taking on Cape Horn, Drake Passage, and a historic circumnavigation mission."Image courtesy: X.com/@PIBMumbai
In another historic feat, the Indian Armed Forces are launching an all-women sailing expedition to circumnavigate the globe aboard the Indian Army Sailing Vessel (IASV) Triveni.
The mission, commencing on September 11, 2025, will see 10 women officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force embark on an 8–9 month journey covering 21,600 nautical miles.
Who are the forerunners of the circumnavigation mission?
Squadron Leader Shraddha Raju, a technical officer with 11 years of experience working on Sukhoi-30 aircraft, described the initiative as a landmark moment. “We will be the forerunners of the IASV Triveni and showcase the power of Indian tri-Services,” she said.
The expedition leader, Lieutenant Colonel Anuja Varudkar, who has 21 years of service experience, called the mission a milestone in India’s maritime journey.
“This mission is about the synergy between all three Services. We bring distinct skill sets gained during our intense training to fulfil the task,” she noted.
The crew, comprising five Army officers, four from the Air Force, and one Naval officer, has undergone two and a half years of rigorous training. This included a 10,000-nautical-mile expedition to Seychelles.
“We were trained in navigation, communication, scuba diving, basic medicals, crisis handling, weather reading, and even mechanical work,” explained Captain Prajakta Nikam.
What are the challenges under the circumnavigation mission?
The circumnavigation will involve crossing the equator twice and rounding the three Great Capes: Cape Leeuwin (Australia), Cape Horn (South America), and the Cape of Good Hope (South Africa).
Navy spokesperson Captain Mehul Karnik highlighted that the Drake Passage, notorious for rough seas and strong currents, will be the most challenging leg of the journey.
The team will dock at four international ports — Australia, New Zealand, Argentina, and South Africa — before returning to Mumbai in May 2026.
IASV Triveni, a 50-foot yacht built indigenously in Puducherry, reflects the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat. Equipped with modern navigation and communication systems, it has already logged 10,000 nautical miles in training.
Naval constructor Lt. Commander Priyanka Gusain, with eight years of service, added, “We will meet the diaspora and strengthen India’s diplomatic ties through this expedition.”
