INS Sindhughosh Decommissioned After 4 Decade Long Service To Nation

The Indian Navy formally decommissioned INS Sindhughosh on December 19, 2025, marking the end of an illustrious four decade long journey. The retirement of this iconic submarine closes an important chapter in India’s naval and underwater warfare history.

Decommissioning Ceremony Highlights

The decommissioning ceremony was held at the Naval Dockyard and witnessed the presence of several senior naval officials and veterans.

• Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, attended the ceremony
• The submarine was decommissioned under the command of Lieutenant Commander Rajat Sharma
• Captain K R Ajrekar (Retd), the second Commanding Officer of INS Sindhughosh, was the Guest of Honour
• Several former commanding officers, veterans, and members of the original crew were present

The event reflected deep respect for the submarine’s service and the sailors who operated her over the years.

INS Sindhughosh

• INS Sindhughosh was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1985 as the lead boat of the Sindhughosh-class submarines.
• These submarines significantly strengthened India’s underwater combat and deterrence capabilities during a critical phase of naval modernisation.
• Over the years, INS Sindhughosh became a backbone of India’s submarine fleet and contributed to numerous patrols, exercises, and strategic missions.

Key Features and Capabilities

During its service life, INS Sindhughosh was known for,

• Strong underwater warfare capabilities
• High endurance for long-duration patrols
• Contribution to maritime surveillance and deterrence
• Supporting training and operational readiness of submarine crews

The submarine played a vital role in maintaining India’s strategic presence in the maritime domain.

Significance of Its Retirement

The retirement of INS Sindhughosh marks,

• The end of a 40 year operational legacy
• A transition phase for the Indian Navy towards newer and more advanced submarines
• Continued focus on indigenous submarine development under future naval programmes
• While the submarine has been retired, its contribution continues to inspire future generations of submariners.

Key Takeaways

• INS Sindhughosh was decommissioned on December 19, 2025
• The submarine served the Indian Navy for four decades
• Commissioned in 1985, it was the lead submarine of its class
• The ceremony honoured past commanders, crew, and veterans
• Its retirement marks a move towards modern and indigenous submarine platforms

Question

Q. In which year was INS Sindhughosh commissioned?

A. 1980
B. 1985
C. 1990
D. 1995