Since the 5th of November, the Cyprus Mission Control Center (CYMCC) is commissioned in the global network of the International Satellite System for Search and Rescue, Cospas – Sarsat, with Nicosia FIR as area of responsibility.

The development and operation of CYMCC, as well as of the Satellite Ground Station (MEOLUT) in Cyprus, have been very important goals set in 2011 by JRCC and their fulfilment significantly upgrade the role of the Republic of Cyprus on Search and Rescue, as a hub for provision of humanitarian services in Eastern Mediterranean region.

Cospas – Sarsat, detects satellite distress signals transmitted by vessel, aircraft or personal radio beacons worldwide and automatically distributes them to the relative Rescue Coordination Centers, in a timely manner. An overview of the System is shown in the diagram below.