ABSTRACT
The many search patterns and search and rescue (SAR) operations that have relied heavily on the involvement of aircraft are too numerous to mention. New technology has enhanced the range of rotary winged aircraft. Procedural changes have established all involved parties in uniform change across international borders. Vessels may be employed in SAR activities alone or with other surface craft or with aircraft. It can be expected that a specialized unit like a warship or military aircraft would assume the duties of the On Scene Coordinator and coordinate the other search units in the area. When an SAR incident is instigated, the marine rescue coordination centre is often faced with the choice of which ship and which Master is most suited to take the position of Coordinator Surface Search (CSS). Masters of ships called in to act as a search unit, or who find themselves designated as CSS, find the SAR mission coordinator (SMC) that provides a search action plan.
