The Indian Navy decommissioned INS Sindhughosh, the lead submarine of her class, at sunset on December 19, 2025, at the Naval Dockyard, marking the end of an illustrious 40-year-long service to the nation.
The decommissioning ceremony was held in the presence of Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command (WNC). The submarine was formally paid off under the command of Lieutenant Commander Rajat Sharma.
Captain KR Ajrekar (Retd), the second Commanding Officer of INS Sindhughosh, graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour, adding historical significance to the ceremony.
Also present were Admiral VS Shekhawat (Retd), former Chief of the Naval Staff, along with Flag Officers, former Commanding Officers, members of the original commissioning crew, veterans, senior officers, and other distinguished guests.
Commissioned in 1985, INS Sindhughosh played a pivotal role in strengthening India’s underwater combat capability, contributing significantly to maritime security, deterrence, and operational preparedness of the Indian Navy over four decades. Her decommissioning marks the close of a proud chapter in India’s submarine service history, even as the Navy continues its transition towards more advanced and indigenous underwater platforms.
