AI in SAR

As AI technologies continue to evolve, they are increasingly influencing SAR operations through applications such as search planning, situational awareness, communications, decision support and detection systems. However, adoption across the global SAR community remains uneven, and many organisations continue to face operational, technical and regulatory challenges in implementing AI effectively.

AI Survey

Take part in our survey here - it takes approximately 15 minutes to complete and all responses will be treated confidentially. Findings from the survey will form the basis of a new IMRF report, the first global benchmark study on AI in maritime SAR, which will be presented at the IMRF Conference in November 2026.

IMO Briefing Paper: The need for performance standard(s) for AI systems embedded in marine equipment

This briefing paper, prepared for IMRF members, summarises IMO Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) Paper 111-21-2, which advocates for the development of formal performance standards for Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems embedded in marine equipment. Views and comments can be fed to the IMO discussions through the IMRF IMO representative via an email to [email protected]

AI Working Group

The IMRF is planning to establish a dedicated AI Working Group for members. The group will support knowledge sharing and will feed operational experience into policies. It will provide a forum for SAR organisations to contribute expertise and operational perspectives as AI use across the sector develops. To express your interest please email [email protected].

IMRF AI Survey

The IMRF AI Survey takes approximately 15 minutes to complete and all responses will be treated confidentially. Findings from the survey will form the basis of a new IMRF report, the first global benchmark study on AI in maritime SAR, which will be presented at the IMRF Conference in November 2026. Read more

IMO Briefing Paper: The need for performance standard(s) for AI systems embedded in marine equipment (IMO)

Full IMO Paper: Considerations on the need for performance standard(s) for AI systems embedded in marine equipment

The IMO MSC paper calls for robust, formal standards for AI in marine equipment to ensure safety, reliability, and human control—issues directly impacting the operation of SAR vessels and aircraft. Read more

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Commercial MASS and remotely operated vessels could play a significant part in future maritime SAR operations to help improve capabilities and operations.
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Basic Rescue Boat Operator Manual & Search Cards

This manual, together with the accompanying Rescue Boat Operator Search Cards, provides recommended best practice for any organisation looking at introducing basic training in Rescue Boat SAR operations.
SAR Matters: Defining Distress Continued ...

People known to be in distress need to be rescued, of course – and the SAR community knows that this concept must also be extended to those believed to be in distress, and to those who, while not yet in distress, will become so if help is not provided to them in the meantime.
MRO (Mass Rescue Operations Guidance)

The IMRF has developed the most comprehensive guidance available for planning and preparing for Mass Rescue Operations (MROs) in the maritime environment.
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