The Portuguese Navy’s NRP Sines and the Portuguese Air Force’s EH101 Merlin helicopter conducted a joint training exercise on Wednesday, January 14th, focused on consolidating interoperability between naval and air assets in Azorean waters, with the aim of reinforcing operational readiness in maritime emergency scenarios.
The operation was carried out under close coordination between the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) of Ponta Delgada and the Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC) of Lajes. This coordination between search and rescue centers is fundamental to ensuring a rapid and effective response in real emergency situations.
During the training, critical maritime search and rescue procedures were tested and consolidated, allowing for the alignment of tactics between the ship’s crew and the aircraft crew.
This type of regular training is a pillar of the Navy’s security strategy which, together with the Portuguese Air Force, reaffirms, through these actions, the permanent commitment to safeguarding human life at sea and protecting maritime spaces under national jurisdiction.
The NRP Sines thus continues its surveillance and support mission in the Autonomous Region of the Azores, maintaining the highest standards of readiness.