Updating SAR task details in flight

[capt tosspot]

Excuse my ignorance - do SAR helicopters have a way (other than R/T) of rapidly receiving updated search coords and task details when well out to sea (120nm+) and working at low level with no FW top cover? IM would be appreciated.
cheers.

[NRDK]

Answer: NO.

With several different types of R/T sources fitted to the Civ & Mil SAR assets including SAT phones for Civ SAR cabs. Replacement Civ aircraft are getting HF back(mil still has it fitted).

Exactly what other means of the Electro-Magnetic spectrum are you after, LASER beams, carrier pigeons, internet/fax, ESP??:}

[Flounder]

Sat phone currently fitted will receive email or text message but there is no direct link to FMS to update lat/long.

A sat phone call is usually quick enough and if you're in excess of 120nm then you could expect to have a bit of planning time available enroute anyway.