Phuket hosts SAREX 2015

PHUKET, August 29 (TNA) -- The Third Fleet of the Royal Thai Navy has cooperated with the Civil Aviation Department and authorities in the southern resort of Phuket in organising Thailand’s annual Search And Rescue Exercise (SAREX 2015) at the provincial deep seaport. Participants of the two-day exercise, began Friday, are required to focus on rescue and search of aircraft and ships which are encountering danger. Now in its 35th year, the annual SAREX is used to train surface units, helicopters and aircraft from different defence and rescue agencies in the search for and safe recovery of people from aircraft and ship accidents. The exercise also aims to ensure clear lines of communication and clearly set boundaries of responsibility for all agencies that join search-and-rescue efforts in Thai waters. As a member of the International Civil Aviation Organisation and the International Maritime Organisation, Thailand is required to hold the exercise every year. (TNA)