The Indian Navy officially decommissioned INS Sindhughosh on December 19, 2025, concluding an illustrious journey of over four decades. This event signifies the closing of a significant chapter in India's naval and underwater warfare history.
The decommissioning ceremony took place at the Naval Dockyard, attended by numerous senior naval officials and veterans. Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command, graced the event. The submarine was decommissioned under the command of Lieutenant Commander Rajat Sharma, with Captain K R Ajrekar (Retd), the second Commanding Officer of INS Sindhughosh, serving as the Guest of Honour. Former commanding officers, veterans, and original crew members were also present, reflecting deep respect for the submarine’s service and the sailors who operated it over the years.
INS Sindhughosh was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1985 as the lead vessel of the Sindhughosh-class submarines. These submarines played a crucial role in enhancing India’s underwater combat and deterrence capabilities during a pivotal phase of naval modernization. Over the years, INS Sindhughosh emerged as a backbone of India’s submarine fleet, participating in numerous patrols, exercises, and strategic missions.
Throughout its service, INS Sindhughosh was recognized for several key features:
The submarine’s role was vital in maintaining India’s strategic presence in the maritime domain.
The retirement of INS Sindhughosh signifies:
Even though the submarine has been retired, its contributions continue to inspire future generations of submariners.
Q1. What is the significance of INS Sindhughosh's decommissioning?
Answer: The decommissioning of INS Sindhughosh marks the end of a 40-year legacy, highlighting the transition to more advanced submarines and emphasizing indigenous submarine development in the Indian Navy.
Q2. When was INS Sindhughosh commissioned into the Indian Navy?
Answer: INS Sindhughosh was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1985 as the lead vessel of the Sindhughosh-class submarines, significantly enhancing India's underwater capabilities.
Q3. Who attended the decommissioning ceremony of INS Sindhughosh?
Answer: The ceremony was attended by Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, several senior naval officials, veterans, former commanding officers, and members of the original crew, reflecting deep respect for the submarine's service.
Q4. What were some capabilities of INS Sindhughosh during its service?
Answer: INS Sindhughosh was known for strong underwater warfare capabilities, high endurance for long patrols, and its contributions to maritime surveillance and training of submarine crews.
Q5. What does the future hold for the Indian Navy after the retirement of INS Sindhughosh?
Answer: The Indian Navy focuses on transitioning to newer submarines and enhancing indigenous submarine development while carrying forward the legacy of past vessels like INS Sindhughosh.
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