Members of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) participated in an intensive Search and Rescue Optimal Planning System (SAROPS) training course held at the Davy Rolle Operations Command Center, HMBS Coral Harbour from March 31 to April 11, 2025.
Conducted by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) National Search and Rescue School, the training brought together personnel from key RBDF units, including the Operations Command Center (OCC), Harbour Patrol Unit, Air Wing, and Sea Training Department.
SAROPS is a state-of-the-art computer-based tool developed by the USCG to enhance the effectiveness of maritime search and rescue (SAR) operations. By integrating real-time environmental data, vessel drift modeling, and probability theory, SAROPS generates optimized search strategies, identifies probable search areas, and allocates resources for maximum efficiency.
The training covered system interface familiarization, environmental data input, SAR case creation and management, search object modeling, simulation analysis, and the development of exportable search plans.
This initiative is a critical step in enhancing the RBDF’s ability to coordinate and execute timely and effective SAR missions. It also underscores the organization’s ongoing commitment to interagency cooperation and operational excellence.
As the RBDF continues to build its maritime capabilities, this training marks a significant milestone toward its strategic goal of becoming the designated Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC) of The Bahamas.
(Photos by: M/S Dante Forbes)
