In a rigorous voyage from Mumbai to Lakshadweep and back, a Tri-Services all-women crew of the Indian Army completed another round of training for an upcoming water sailing expedition.
This remarkable journey serves as a challenging training exercise in preparation for an historic around-the-world blue-water sailing expedition slated to commence in September 2024.
To test their endurance and skills in some of the most demanding maritime conditions, the crew embarked on a 27-day expedition with the support of the Army Adventure Wing and the Army Aqua Nodal Center of the College of Military Engineering.
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The Tri-Service women crew (Image: Indian Army)
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All women crew completing water expedition. (Image: Indian Army)
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The crew embarked on a 27-day expedition with the support of the Army Adventure Wing and the Army Aqua Nodal Center of the College of Military Engineering. (Image: Indian Army)
The skill and endurance test included them navigating through hard obstacles and environmental conditions. They faced sweltering heat, varying wind conditions, and Arabian sea waters, showcasing not only their physical prowess but also their mental fortitude and teamwork.
Divided into four legs, each part of the journey presented the unique challenges and learning opportunities to the crew. The successful completion of this expedition ultimately strengthened their capabilities for the upcoming global circumnavigation.
Through this expedition, the Indian Army aims not only to mark geographical milestones but also to break cultural and gender barriers. Having commenced such expeditions in the past, this initiative by the Army celebrates and emphasises the importance of inclusivity and diversity within the forces.
The completion of this all-women crew expedition also underscores the capabilities and potential of women officers in maritime and military endeavours, having the leadership and executing complex and challenging missions.
The flagging-in ceremony to celebrate this achievement will be held on Friday evening, April 19, at Marve, Mumbai. The event is expected to be a grand affair for these courageous women sailors, who have collectively logged more than 6,000 NM of nautical training.
This historical yet adventurous journey is aimed at inspiring many young aspirants, especially women, to explore the limitless opportunities within the Indian Armed Forces. With the preparation of the global journey upcoming in a few months, this all-women team has already started to inspire many across the nation and the world.