GMV will be playing an essential role in the project known as the Integrated Innovation Program for Maritime Rescue, or iSAR. This is an ambitious program led by Spain’s Maritime Rescue and Safety Society (Sociedad de Salvamento y Seguridad Marítima or SASEMAR) and it will allow that public entity to solidify its status as a leading international provider of search and rescue services, while also improving maritime security and fighting pollution.

To execute the iSAR program, SASEMAR will make use of Camcopter S‑100 unmanned helicopters provided by the Austrian company Schiebel. The aim is to further develop maritime search and rescue (SAR) capabilities by achieving a higher level of automation. Schiebel’s Camcopter S‑100 will incorporate advanced sensors that can detect vessels in distress and drifting objects, locate pollution sources in the water and air and identify explosive atmospheres.

Schiebel will be relying upon GMV to provide the plug and play network infrastructure, which will allow for real-time communications between maritime vessels and aircraft on the high seas and coordination centers on land.

The project is based on implementing innovative solutions, on the maritime vessels and aircraft as well as at the coordination centers. This is being done by incorporating the latest technologies for communications and connectivity, along with smart sensors, artificial intelligence and new platforms. This combination will produce a powerful response system for maritime emergencies, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of surveillance operations and the ability to react to emergency situations on the high seas. It will also address a range of needs related to search and rescue services and for detection of spills, hazardous substances and objects that represent navigational hazards.

The iSAR project includes three challenges. The third challenge, for which GMV will be entirely responsible, is to establish an information network by integrating the mission systems and a smart connectivity system with adaptation for stations on land. GMV will be developing the command and control systems for the coordination centers, as well as for the mobile units (consisting of three ships, one airplane, and one helicopter). All of these systems will also be connected through a satellite communication network, so that interconnection can be maintained at all times.