The Indian Navy has partnered with TVS Motor Company to launch an ambitious two-wheeled journey dubbed the ‘Fleet to Forts’ Motorcycle Expedition.Flagged off on 29th September 2026 from Kohli Stadium at Navynagar in Mumbai, the initiative brings together coastal military tradition, inland history, and youth outreach across western India.
Over the course of a 14-day ride itinerary, a 25-member contingent will take on a route stretching more than 1,600 km through the interior towns, coastal stretches, and rural villages of Maharashtra. Riding TVS Ronin motorcycles, the team is set to scale ten historic forts intimately tied to the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Several of these stops feature among the sites newly inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List under the title “Maratha Military Landscapes of India.”
Beyond celebrating local history, the expedition is designed as a direct platform to connect with young people. Throughout the route, riders will engage local youth on naval career pathways, placing special emphasis on the Agnipath Scheme—the Government of India’s short-term recruitment programme for personnel below officer rank across the Armed Forces.
Highlighting ‘Nari Shakti’ and Team Spirit
Led by Captain Shekhar Deshpande, the diverse 25-strong team brings together Officers, Sailors, and Agniveers. Crucially, the lineup prominently features women Officers, women Agniveers, and women from the broader naval community, reflecting the service’s strong commitment to Nari Shakti (women power).
For TVS Motor Company, teaming up with the naval contingent provides an opportunity to share tales of exploration, camaraderie, and adventure with young audiences against the historic backdrop that helped mould India’s maritime past.
Perspectives from the Flag-Off
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, Vice Admiral Rahul Vilas Gokhale, Chief of Staff, Western Naval Command, underlined the deeper symbolism behind the ride:
“The Indian Navy continues to be a dominant force in the high seas and its spirit of adventure, exploration and outreach is aptly reflected in this ‘Fleet to Forts’ Motorcycle Expedition. The forts stand as enduring reminders of vision, courage, organisation, resilience and the ability to build a formidable military capability in very challenging circumstances. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj remains a continuous source of inspiration for the Indian Navy for building indigenous Maritime Capability.”
Vice Admiral Gokhale encouraged the riders to deliver a clear message prompting young Indians to serve the nation with pride, while also taking full advantage of the journey to immerse themselves in Maharashtra’s rich culture, communities, landscapes, and heritage.
Vimal Sumbly, Head of Business – Premium at TVS Motor Company, shared his perspective on the ongoing collaboration:
“We are extremely proud and honoured to continue our association with the Indian Navy through the ‘Fleet to Forts’ Motorcycle Expedition. The journey brings alive stories of valour, resilience and ingenuity, taking these inspiring stories to young Indians through historic forts and coastal landscapes that have shaped our maritime heritage. This spirit resonates deeply with the TVS Ronin, which encourages riders to chart their own path, embrace the unexpected and turn every journey into a story of their own. Through an #Unscripted lifestyle rooted in individuality and exploration, Ronin inspires riders to experience the road differently. We hope this expedition inspires a new generation to carry forward the courage, creativity and sense of purpose that define our shared journey. We wish the entire contingent a safe and memorable ride.”
By blending heritage preservation, high-mileage riding, and community service, the ‘Fleet to Forts’ rally aims to open up meaningful dialogues with the next generation, encouraging young Indians to discover avenues for nation-building along the open road.
