2026 Ministry of Transport Rescue System Southern Sea Area Maritime Search and Rescue Comprehensive Exercise Held in Qiongzhou Strait

On August 28, 2026, the Ministry of Transport's salvage system conducted a comprehensive maritime search and rescue drill in the southern sea area of the Qiongzhou Strait. This drill is the largest and most comprehensive maritime search and rescue exercise in China this year, involving 7 salvage vessels, 2 rescue helicopters, 1 search and rescue drone, and 1 emergency rescue team participating simultaneously.

The entire drill emphasized technological empowerment and a practical combat-oriented approach, simulating an emergency situation when a transport ship encountered danger while navigating the waters of the Qiongzhou Strait. Seven main segments were set up, including searching and rescuing people overboard, maritime firefighting, air-sea integrated rescue, personnel transfer between ships, underwater exploration and obstruction removal, maritime towing, and reviewing the participating fleet.

The drill comprehensively tested the rapid response, air-sea coordinated operations, and joint handling capabilities of salvage forces in maritime emergencies. It showcased the practical effectiveness of China's "three-in-one" air-sea integrated rescue system under complex sea conditions, strengthening the maritime safety defense line for the construction of the Hainan Free Trade Port and the safe and smooth operation of the Qiongzhou Strait "Golden Waterway."