Bhubaneswar: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) will conduct a large-scale Search and Rescue (SAR) demonstration, SAREX-2026, off the Paradip coast on Thursday, October 8, showcasing advanced multi-agency coordination and international interoperability in maritime emergency response.
A key highlight of the exercise is the participation of 32 observers from 30 countries, underscoring the growing global cooperation in maritime safety protocols and the strategic importance of joint SAR operations.SAREX-2026 is set to be one of the largest and most complex SAR exercises ever held in the region.
The ICG will deploy 15 ships, two Dornier aircraft, three Advanced Light Helicopters and one Chetak helicopter. The Indian Air Force will contribute a C-130J Super Hercules and Mi-17 helicopters, while the Indian Navy will field two ships. Civil and state assets, along with shore-based support units, will also take part. The exercise will simulate a Mass Rescue Operation involving simultaneous aeronautical and maritime distress situations.
The scenario includes the ditching of a passenger aircraft at sea with 228 persons on board and its subsequent collision with the container vessel MV Zumba, testing rapid response, coordination and rescue capabilities under high-pressure conditions.
The drill follows the 24th National Maritime Search and Rescue (NMSAR) Board Meeting held in Bhubaneswar under the chairmanship of Director General Paramesh Sivamani.
Together, the Board meeting and SAREX-2026 reflect India’s commitment to building a faster, technology-enabled and internationally connected SAR framework, in line with the vision of SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) and the spirit of MAHASAGAR.
