Paradip, Oct 8 (UDN): The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) will conduct a large-scale maritime Search and Rescue exercise, SAREX-2026, off the Paradip coast on Thursday, bringing together multiple Indian agencies and observers from countries across the world.
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The exercise is designed to demonstrate India’s capabilities in handling complex maritime emergencies, while strengthening coordination and interoperability among agencies involved in search and rescue operations.
32 International Observers From 30 Countries
A major feature of SAREX-2026 will be the participation of 32 observers representing 30 countries. Their presence is expected to provide an opportunity to exchange operational experience and strengthen international cooperation in maritime safety and emergency response.
The exercise will simulate a Mass Rescue Operation (MRO) involving simultaneous maritime and aviation emergencies, requiring rapid coordination between ships, aircraft and shore-based agencies.
Major Deployment of Ships and Aircraft
The Indian Coast Guard will deploy 15 ships, two Dornier aircraft, three Advanced Light Helicopters and a Chetak helicopter for the exercise.
The Indian Air Force will participate with a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft and Mi-17 helicopters, while the Indian Navy will deploy two ships.
Civilian and state government resources, along with shore-based support agencies, will also participate in the exercise.
Passenger Aircraft Crash Scenario
The drill will recreate a complex emergency situation involving a passenger aircraft carrying 228 people ditching into the sea and subsequently colliding with the container vessel MV Zumba.
The simulated crisis is intended to test the ability of participating agencies to coordinate large-scale rescue operations involving a high number of people in distress.
The exercise will assess response time, communication, coordination and deployment of air and maritime assets under challenging conditions.
Exercise Follows National SAR Board Meeting
SAREX-2026 follows the 24th National Maritime Search and Rescue (NMSAR) Board Meeting, held in Bhubaneswar under the chairmanship of Coast Guard Director General Paramesh Sivamani.
The exercise is expected to reinforce India’s preparedness for maritime emergencies and strengthen coordination between national and international stakeholders.
The Coast Guard has been working towards developing a faster, technology-driven and globally integrated search and rescue framework, aligned with India’s broader maritime vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and the spirit of MAHASAGAR.
The Paradip exercise will provide a major platform to demonstrate India’s operational readiness and its commitment to strengthening cooperation in maritime search and rescue missions.