Canada and Portugal have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Aeronautical Search and Rescue (SAR) Cooperation, reinforcing a long-standing partnership in North Atlantic SAR operations.
The Canada–Portugal MOU formalizes a longstanding operational relationship between Canada’s Department of National Defence and the Portuguese Republic’s Ministry of National Defence, strengthening cooperation in a key North Atlantic search and rescue region. As Canada’s Halifax’s SAR Region and Portugal’s SAR Region operate in close proximity across this vast ocean area, the agreement enhances coordination, information sharing, and the development of common procedures and best practices, while respecting each nation’s SAR responsibilities.
The signing of the MOU coincided with the completion of Advanced Search and Rescue Exercise (ASAREX) 2026. Conducted from 1 to 12 July 2026, in Ponta Delgada, Azores, ASAREX brought together SAR professionals from Canada, Portugal, and other North Atlantic partners to train in one of the world’s most demanding maritime environments.
Through realistic scenarios involving long-range coordination, maritime distress response, and multinational SAR operations, participants strengthened interoperability and enhanced their ability to respond effectively when lives are at risk far from shore. Since 2015, Canada and Portugal have participated in ASAREX to build professional relationships, refine operational procedures, and capture lessons learned that support real-world SAR operations.
Canada and Portugal’s enduring SAR collaboration has improved both nations’ capacity to respond to incidents in the North Atlantic and contributes to the effectiveness of multinational SAR efforts across the region. The conclusion of ASAREX 2026 and the signing of the Canada–Portugal MOU reaffirm both nations’ commitment to saving lives, enhancing readiness, and supporting those in distress at sea through strong international partnerships.