A framework for assessing the capability of maritime search and rescue in the south China sea

Abstract

Maritime search and rescue (SAR) services are critical for the safety of humans and property in marine environments. This paper proposes a comprehensive framework to assess the capability of maritime SAR in the South China Sea (SCS). The framework comprises three steps. First, rescue vessel response times are estimated by a geographic information system-based response time model. Second, maritime SAR services demand is calculated by combining ship location data and marine incident data. Third, three assessment criteria, namely primary coverage, weighted coverage, and mean access time, are determined to quantitatively assess the capability of maritime SAR. This framework was then applied to the SCS in the analysis of three scenarios in which the SAR response system was defined according to the rescue mechanism (e.g., noncooperation vs. cooperation between countries bordering the SCS). The results showed that only a limited area near the coasts can be reached in a short response time when countries do not cooperate. It was also determined it is difficult for a single country to implement SAR missions effectively while covering the whole SCS; a joint SAR mechanism would allow for better outcomes regarding the performance of maritime SAR services. Furthermore, maritime SAR capacity can be significantly improved when island rescue bases are built. The study offers insights to help policy makers take actions concerning strategic planning to develop effective risk reduction measures and improve maritime SAR capacity in the SCS.