The Regional Centre for Maritime Studies (RCMS) officially kicked off its latest capacity-building initiative—the Search & Rescue Mission Coordinators’ (SMC) Course—on 17 June 2025. This specialized program is being held in close collaboration with SAR Training Australia and the Australian High Commission in Sri Lanka, underscoring a strong commitment to regional maritime safety and international cooperation.

The course welcomes 10 select participants from two critical institutions: the Maritime Rescue Coordinating Centre (MRCC) of the Sri Lanka Navy and the Aeronautical Rescue Coordination Centre (ARCC) of the Civil Aviation Authority. Over the duration of the course, they will undergo rigorous instruction from two veteran trainers of SAR Training Australia, whose extensive field expertise and global perspective are enriching the program with proven best practices.

Focused on strengthening the principles of command, control, and coordination in both maritime and aeronautical rescue operations, the course is purpose-built to develop the next generation of Search and Rescue Mission Coordinators. Topics range from mission planning and resource deployment to inter-agency collaboration and crisis communication—key competencies for ensuring efficiency during critical incidents.

This initiative represents a timely and strategic investment in Sri Lanka’s national and regional SAR readiness, aligning with internationally recognized standards and fostering greater resilience in the Indian Ocean region.