SAREX-24 Exercise: Redefining Maritime Rescue Operations

Strategic Maritime Rescue Exercise

• The Indian Coast Guard's SAREX-24 scheduled from November 27 to 30 in Kochi.
• India's commitment to enhancing maritime safety and emergency response capabilities.

• 11th edition of National Maritime Search and Rescue Exercises
• Organized by National Maritime Search and Rescue (NMSAR) Board
• Involves national and international maritime stakeholders
• Demonstrates India's evolving maritime security capabilities

Strategic Participants:

• Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh (Inaugural Speaker)
• Coast Guard Director General S Paramesh
• Representatives from multiple government agencies
• International maritime experts and observers

Comprehensive Exercise Design

SAREX-24 employs a multi-dimensional approach to testing and improving search and rescue capabilities through innovative methodologies:

Exercise Components:

• Table-top workshops and seminars
• Large-scale sea exercise off Kochi coast
• Two major simulated emergency scenarios

a) Distressed passenger vessel (500 passengers)

b) Civil aircraft ditching (200 passengers)

Technological Innovations:

• Satellite-aided distress beacons
• Drone-deployed life buoys
• Remote-controlled life-saving equipment
• Air-droppable life rafts

Participating Agencies:

• Indian Coast Guard
• Indian Navy
• Indian Air Force
• Cochin Port Authority
• Customs Department
• International maritime delegations

Broader Strategic Implications

The exercise transcends traditional emergency response training, representing a significant diplomatic and strategic initiative:

Global Significance:

• Demonstrates India's maritime leadership
• Strengthens regional cooperation
• Showcases technological preparedness
• Supports Prime Minister's SAGAR vision (Security and Growth for All in the Region)

Operational Objectives:

• Enhance Mass Rescue Operations (MRO)
• Validate national maritime search and rescue construct
• Improve inter-agency coordination
• Share best practices with international partners

Strategic Outcomes:

• Reinforces India's position in global maritime security
• Establishes stronger regional maritime safety networks
• Showcases technological and operational capabilities
• Creates platform for international collaboration