From 12 to 15 October 2026, the 75th Meeting of the Cospas-Sarsat Council (CSC-75) was held in Montreal, Canada, in a hybrid format, combining in-person and online participation.
The Vietnamese delegation was led by Mr. Hoang Hong Giang, Deputy Director General of the Vietnam Maritime and Waterway Administration. The delegation included Mr. Pham Anh Son, Deputy General Director of Vietnam Maritime Communication and Electronics LLC (VISHIPEL), together with representatives from the Ministry of Construction, relevant technical units under the Vietnam Maritime and Waterway Administration, and VISHIPEL.
Approval for the Integration of the New Vietnam Mission Control Centre into the Cospas-Sarsat System.
At the meeting, the Cospas-Sarsat Council reviewed, discussed and approved several important matters relating to the management, operation and development of the system. Notably, the Council announced its approval for the integration of the new Vietnam Mission Control Centre (VNMCC) into the Cospas-Sarsat System. This marks an important milestone in the modernization of Vietnam’s satellite communications infrastructure supporting search and rescue operations.
In addition, the Council approved the declaration of Initial Operational Capability (IOC) for the Medium Earth Orbit Search and Rescue (MEOSAR) satellite system for Second-Generation Beacons (SGBs), effective from 2 November 2026. This represents a further advancement in the operational capabilities of the Cospas-Sarsat System for the reception and processing of distress alert signals.
Strengthening International Exchanges and Cooperation.
During the meeting, the Vietnamese delegation met in person with Ms. Shefali Juneja, Head of the Cospas-Sarsat Secretariat, to express its appreciation for the Secretariat’s support to Vietnam in recent years and to discuss matters relating to the management and operation of the system.
The Vietnamese delegation also attended the Northwest Pacific Region (NWPR) meeting, chaired by Japan. Participants received updates on the progress of bringing Mission Control Centres (MCCs) in the region into operation, exchanged views on implementation plans for the coming period, and discussed matters relating to coordination among countries in the region.
Participation in CSC-75 provided Vietnam with an opportunity to exchange experience, stay informed of the latest developments in the Cospas-Sarsat System, and strengthen cooperation with the Secretariat and other Member States.
Through its active participation in the meeting, VISHIPEL continues to work alongside state management authorities in international cooperation, contributing to enhanced capabilities in the management and operation of satellite communication systems for search and rescue, and helping safeguard lives at sea.
Highlights of CSC-75 and related activities:
