On the morning of September 10, 2025, Vietnam Communication and Electronics LLC (VISHIPEL) solemnly hosted the seminar “Search and Rescue (SAR) Information Coordination and Cospas-Sarsat Day” at its headquarters. The event welcomed distinguished delegates from Vietnam Maritime and Waterway Administration (VIMAWA), led by Deputy Administrator Mr. Hoàng Hồng Giang, alongside representatives from National Civil Defense Steering Committee, Air Defense – Air Force Command, Navy Command, the Vietnam Coast Guard, Vietnam Maritime Search and Rescue Co-ordination Centre (VIET NAM MRCC), Aviation SAR Coordination Centre, and other regional maritime authorities. Representing VISHIPEL were President Mr. Nguyễn Anh Tuấn, General Director Mr. Phan Ngọc Quang, the Executive Board, and specialists from affiliated departments.
Overview of the Seminar on “Search and Rescue Information Coordination and Cospas-Sarsat Day”
🌐 About Cospas-Sarsat
Established in 1979 through cooperation among Canada, France, the United States, and the former Soviet Union, Cospas-Sarsat is a non-profit international organization dedicated to humanitarian efforts. Its global satellite-based SAR system has saved tens of thousands of lives, exemplifying the power of international collaboration. September 10 is recognized annually as Cospas-Sarsat Search and Rescue Day, honoring the silent heroes who transform distress signals into life-saving actions.
📡 Seminar Highlights
Participants were briefed on: Overview of the Cospas-Sarsat System and the operations of the Vietnam Cospas-Sarsat Satellite Station (VNLUT/MCC); Updates on the new initiatives of the Cospas-Sarsat Organization; and a summary of the activities of the Cospas-Sarsat System and the VNLUT/MCC during the 2020–2025 period.
Deputy Administrator of VIMAWA, Mr. Hoàng Hồng Giang, delivered a speech at the seminar.
Deputy Administrator of VIMAWA, Mr. Hoàng Hồng Giang emphasized the system’s critical role in timely information delivery and life-saving operations. He commended the professionalism and discipline of the VNLUT/MCC team and advocated for: Localization of emergency beacon production (EPIRB, PLB) Integration of advanced technologies for rapid emergency response Public awareness campaigns on beacon usage Strengthened international cooperation, especially with ASEAN partners Infrastructure upgrades, including the deployment of next-generation stations by 2026.
Mr. Trần Mạnh Nam, Deputy Director of the Aviation SAR Coordination Centre, delivered a speech at the seminar
Mr. Trần Mạnh Nam, Deputy Director of the Aviation SAR Coordination Centre, reaffirmed SAR as a humanitarian mission enshrined in international conventions. He praised the collaboration between VATM and VISHIPEL, noting 248 alerts handled between 2020–2025. The 2024 data-sharing agreement between the two entities marks a significant step toward enhanced SAR capabilities.
Mr. Phan Ngọc Quang- General Director of VISHIPEL delivered a speech at the seminar
Mr. Phan Ngọc Quang- General Director of VISHIPEL highlighted Vietnam’s active role as a Cospas-Sarsat member. He addressed the challenge of false alerts—often caused by improper device handling—and called for a shift from passive compliance to proactive safety prioritization. He stressed the importance of public education and inter-agency training to build a robust SAR information system.
🎖️ Global Cospass-Sarsat SAR Day
A key feature of the seminar was the recognition of outstanding individuals and teams who have contributed significantly to SAR efforts in Vietnam. These professionals, including technicians and operators at VNLUT/MCC, work tirelessly around the clock to process distress signals, playing a decisive role in successful rescue missions and reinforcing Vietnam’s reputation in the global SAR community. The seminar concluded in a spirit of unity and purpose, reaffirming the commitment of all stakeholders to enhancing SAR coordination and safeguarding lives at sea and in the air.
Some photos from the seminar:
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