Originally Posted by
minigundiplomat
Germany also ordered some H215 airframes for SAR
The three new H215 now coming into service (plus a 4th in 2019) are to be operated by the Federal Police (Bundespolizei) specifically to support the Central Command for Maritime Emergencies (Havariekommando). Not for SAR, but as dedicated resources for aerial reconnaisance, personnel and equipment transport during maritime incidents at sea - for example pollution control, oil recovery, shipboard fire fighting. Naturally, they would be available to be tasked as second-line SAR resources - however, the primary SAR role as per ICAO and support of the maritime search and rescue (lifeboat) service will continue to be provided by the German Navy. Currently with Sea King (or rather what little is left in operational condition) and NH90 from 2022.