Defence Secretary Attends National Aeronautical Search and
Rescue Committee Meeting
May 21, 2025
The National Aeronautical Search and Rescue Committee (NASC) convened today (May 21) at the Maganeguma - Mahamedura Complex in Battaramulla. The meeting was attended by Defence Secretary, Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha (Retd), who serves as the Co -Chairman of the Committee.
In alignment with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation, Sri Lanka's designated Search and Rescue Region (SRR), comprising its territorial sea and adjacent high seas is responsible for coordinating and delivering aeronautical and maritime search and rescue services.
The delineation of these search and rescue zones aims to ensure the provision of essential and effective coordination, including communications, medical assistance, disaster warnings and aid to any individuals in distress, regardless of their nationality or status.
The NASC was formally established through Gazette Extraordinary No. 2347-02 dated 28 August 2023. Its primary mandate is to provide strategic leadership, direction and coordination for the implementation of Sri Lanka’s National Aeronautical Search and Rescue System.
The committee is required to meet at least once annually, either during an active aeronautical search and rescue operation or when such circumstances do not arise. The NASC is co-chaired by the Secretary to the Ministry of Defence and the Secretary to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Aviation Services.
Along with high-ranking military officers including Tri-Forces Commanders and a number of senior officials notably the Secretary to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Aviation, Director General of Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of the Airport and Aviation Services (Sri Lanka) (Private) Limited, Director General of the Disaster Management Centre, Senior Deputy Inspector General of Police at Crime and Traffic Range and other airport and aviation related dignitaries participated in the meeting alongside the Defence Secretary.
