The Coast Guard is updating its Search and Rescue (SAR) policy in the most significant overhaul in over three decades. The new policy will modernize the Service’s operational framework and empower Operational Commanders and SAR Mission Coordinators (SMCs).
In line with the Coast Guard’s ongoing transformation, this initiative streamlines processes and eliminates ambiguity to best position SAR operators for success in the face of any crisis.
Smarter, faster decisions
The updated SAR policy involves the removes the automatic assumption of the distress emergency phase, which dictates the way SAR operators respond to a given situation. Specifically, the new policy now directs the operator to “assess the situation and assign the appropriate emergency phase.” This change means that operators no longer judge a situation's severity solely based on the method used to request assistance.
This change shifts the culture from one of reactive procedures to one of deliberate, commander-led risk management, directly supporting strategic management of missions. From the SAR unit’s perspective, the change ensures decisionmakers incorporate multiple factors rather than following a one-size-fits-all policy before committing time, manpower, and resources to a mission.
A new training standard
To support this shift, the new Training Competency and Management Instruction (TCMI) introduces a new competency for personnel who coordinate SAR responses: the SAR Mission Manager (SMM). This new competency standardizes training and professional requirements for those who plan and manage SAR response. Creating this competency recognizes the unique and high-stakes skillset required for SAR management and planning.
Here are the key details about the new SMM competency and how it affects different members and operators:
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Group
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Requirement
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Current Watchstanders
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Members who were qualified as Operations Unit Controller (OUC) or Command Duty Officer (CDO) were automatically assigned the SMM competency. These members must complete the Personnel Qualification Standards (PQS) within three years or upon transferring to a new unit (whichever comes first), to retain the SMM competency.
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New members
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Any member who is not currently qualified will need to complete all the new requirements to earn the SMM competency.
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For Coast Guard members in the SAR community, the new policy also updates the course currency requirements. SAR operators must comply with these new requirements by Sept. 30, 2026, and more information is available here.
Next Steps
Looking ahead, the Coast Guard will release an updated Addendum to the National Search and Rescue Supplement (NSS) to the International Aeronautical and Maritime Search and Rescue Manual (IAMSAR) later this year. For more information in the meantime, please visit the CG-SAR Policy portal page (CAC required).
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