Subelement E: Survival Craft Equip & S.A.R.— Topic :
Question 32E3
Element 7R (GMDSS-RO)What may be used as a homing signal by the search and rescue vessels in the immediate vicinity of the ship in Distress?
Explanation
The 121.5 MHz frequency is designated as the international analog distress frequency for homing. While modern 406 MHz satellite EPIRBs transmit precise location data to satellites, they also incorporate a lower-power 121.5 MHz beacon. Search and Rescue (SAR) aircraft and vessels are equipped with specialized direction-finding (DF) equipment tuned to 121.5 MHz. This allows them to "home in" on the signal once they are in the immediate vicinity of the distress, providing the final localization for rescue.
The 406 MHz signal (C) is for satellite alerting and position relay to rescue coordination centers, not for direct local homing by nearby vessels. Flare guns (A) and strobe lights (B) are visual distress signals, not radio transmitters, and therefore cannot be used for radio direction finding or homing.
Related Questions
32E1 Which of the following would best be used for visual detection of a distressed vessel?32E2 Which piece of required GMDSS equipment is the primary source of transmitting locating signals?32E4 What part of a satellite EPIRB may function as a visual aid to rescue vessels?32E5 What is an example of a locating signal?32E6 Which device provides the best method to locate a ship in Distress or survival craft in the GMDSS?