JP 3-50 National Search and Rescue Manual Vol I - US Navy

2. The distress location is reasonably well known; and
3. The rescue unit is in position to render timely and effective
assistance.
C. RAE is not as well developed for aircraft and accordingly the
conditions are more restrictive. The general conditions include those
that apply to vessels with the additional condition that a person is in
danger or distress from perils of the sea, and delay in rendering
assistance is potentially life threatening.
D. RAE is not dependent upon seeking or receiving the permission
of the coastal nation. While the permission of the coastal state is not
required, notification of the entry should be given to the coastal state
both as a matter of courtesy and for alerting rescue forces of that
nation. RAE extends only to rescues where the location of the danger or
distress is reasonably well known. The right extends only to bona fide
rescue operations, and not to conducting searches within the foreign
territorial sea without the permission of the coastal nation. It is
desirable that prearranged procedures be developed for working directly
with SAR authorities of foreign countries. IMO and ICAO provide a
medium for such cooperation.
E. Account should be taken of the sensitivity that may result from
use of military units for SAR within the territory or territorial waters
of some nations.
F. Ships and aircraft of other nations should be afforded
comparable rights of entry into U.S. territorial seas. U.S. actions
that unreasonably restrict RAE will inevitably jeopardize the ability of
U.S. vessels and aircraft to exercise RAE.
G. Since domestic and international law are involved, SAR
coordinators should be aware of the
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