UAE to lead new COSPAS-SARSAT International AI Committee for Search & Rescue Innovation

emirates7 - During its virtual session on June 13, 2025, the global COSPAS-SARSAT organisation made a landmark decision to form a new international working group dedicated to artificial intelligence applications in satellite-assisted search and rescue systems, with the UAE appointed as the chair.

This initiative follows a series of successful international meetings held in Abu Dhabi from May 27 to June 5, 2025, which focused on major advancements in space-based search and rescue technologies.

The UAE’s National Guard Command, through the National Search and Rescue Centre, submitted a detailed working paper that served as the basis for establishing this specialised committee.

The innovative proposal advocates integrating AI into Mission Control Centre (MCC) operations to boost the speed, accuracy, and overall performance of distress signal processing across satellite networks. By harnessing intelligent data analysis and cross-system integration, the project aims to greatly enhance global response times and operational efficiency in life-saving missions.

This move received widespread praise from representatives of 45 countries and leading international organisations such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), all recognizing the UAE’s leadership in advancing humanitarian rescue capabilities through cutting-edge technology.

Under the new framework, the UAE-led working group will facilitate technical cooperation among member states, develop AI-powered tools for mission control systems, and promote global readiness and responsiveness in search and rescue operations.

The committee also officially lauded the UAE for its transformative efforts, highlighting its strategic role in modernizing the COSPAS-SARSAT system and cementing its status as a key contributor to international emergency response initiatives.

Moving forward, the committee plans to set global standards for AI integration in space-based search and rescue systems, encourage knowledge sharing, and invite new partners interested in supporting this innovative effort.