On Monday, August 21, 2023, a joint Search and Rescue exercise (SAREX) between Cyprus and the United States called "CYPUSA 01/23" was conducted within the Search and Rescue (SAR) Region of the Republic of Cyprus (ROC).
The exercise is under the framework of the defense cooperation program between the two countries and was conducted in a sea area within the SAR Region of the ROC, under the coordination of the Joint Rescue Coordination Center. In the exercise participated the USS RAMAGE (DDG 61), CNS “ALASIA” of the Cyprus Navy of the National Guard General Staff, FPB “THISEAS” of the Port and Marine Police, two AW-139 helicopters from the Cyprus Police Aviation Unit, the 460 SAR Squadron of the Airforce Command of the National Guard General Staff and “MEDEVAC” Specialized Nurses of the Ambulance Service of the State Health Services Organization.
The main goal of the exercise was to further improve the existing search and rescue cooperation between the ROC and U.S. aeronautical forces, and to train the SAR crews on operational procedures followed in the event of an emergency requiring their response.
In carrying out this exercise, we strengthen our joint capacity for regional emergency response, emphasize our shared commitment to promoting security and stability in the region, and seek further opportunities to enhance our interoperability.
SAREX «CYPUSA 01/23» constitutes the first collaboration in 2023 and is a continuation of the long-lasting cooperation between Cyprus and the U.S. in Search and Rescue matters.
