The “Four On-the-Scene” Principle – A Golden Key in Maritime Search and Rescue. Practical Lessons from the Incidents of “Lady R3” and “Van Don Ace”

The East Sea, a vast area in the tropical monsoon zone, plays a vital role not only in terms of geopolitics, economics, and national defense, but also as a hub for maritime activities, fisheries, oil and gas exploration, and marine tourism. With its complex climate, frequently affected by storms, tropical depressions, high waves, strong winds, and other hazardous weather patterns—combined with the high density of vessel traffic along international shipping lanes and coastal waters—the East Sea harbors significant risks of serious maritime accidents and incidents.

In this context, maritime search and rescue (SAR) is critically important, serving as a “lifeline” to protect human lives, vessels, and property at sea. It also helps ensure maritime safety, maintain socio-economic stability in marine areas, and affirms national governance over Vietnam's sovereign, sovereign rights, and jurisdictional waters.

Recognizing the crucial role of SAR, the Vietnam Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Center (Vietnam MRCC)—the core unit in the national maritime SAR system—has consistently focused on enhancing its organizational capabilities and operational effectiveness. A key emphasis has been placed on the flexible and efficient application of the "Four On-the-Scene" principle when responding to incidents and asserting field command at accident sites.

The “Four On-the-Scene” principle has long served as a guiding strategy in maritime SAR. In major maritime emergencies, the flexible and effective application of this principle can directly determine the success of the rescue mission. Two typical examples demonstrating its effectiveness include the rescue of 303 Sri Lankan nationals from the disabled vessel Lady R3 and the search and rescue of 19 crew members from the Van Don Ace in offshore waters.

The “Four On-the-Scene” Principle in Maritime SAR includes:

On-the-scene Command: Establishing a unified, flexible command structure from the central control center to the scene, ensuring seamless communication and timely decision-making.

On-the-scene Forces: Maximizing the mobilization of available rescue forces and vessels near the scene, including both dedicated SAR units and civil or international vessels.

On-the-scene Equipment and Materials: Effectively utilizing existing rescue equipment, especially from ships operating near the incident location.

On-the-scene Logistics: Providing essential supplies, medical care, fuel, and basic living conditions for rescuers and survivors.

1. The Incident of “Lady R3” (Near the Spratly Islands)

The Lady R3 vessel, carrying 303 Sri Lankan, suffered engine room flooding in distant offshore waters under severe weather conditions.

303 Sri Lankan on board the Ro-Ro vessel “Helios Leader”

Vietnam MRCC mobilized the cargo ship Helios Leader (Japanese-flagged), which was operating near the scene, to swiftly approach and rescue all those in distress. SAR vessel SAR 413 was then dispatched to transfer the rescued individuals to shore for medical care.

Helios Leader and SAR 413 were the key vessels in conducting the timely and effective rescue. The reception, medical care, accommodation, and diplomatic procedures were promptly handled with the involvement of various agencies in Ba Ria – Vung Tau province.

This case exemplifies the successful use of local maritime assets along international shipping routes to participate in SAR operations.

2. The Incident of “Van Don Ace” (In Southern Waters)

The vessel “Van Don Ace” encountered trouble in bad weather, forcing all 19 crew members to abandon ship and drift at sea. Upon receiving the distress alert, Vietnam MRCC dispatched SAR 413 from Vung Tau to the scene, and also coordinated with the cargo ship MSC Rapallo (Liberian-flagged), which was operating nearby, to assist in rescuing some crew members from life rafts.

Helicopter VN 8622 and vessel SAR 413 conducting search operations at the scene

Vietnam MRCC directly commanded the operation, assigning SAR 413 as the on-scene coordinator, and worked closely with Coast Guard vessels and oil service ships. In addition to these maritime assets, a helicopter (VN 8622) was also deployed to support SAR efforts.

Rescue personnel on SAR 413 provided immediate medical attention and maintained extended search operations, well-supported by adequate logistics in terms of food, fuel, and equipment.

The “Four On-the-Scene” principle is not just a strategic guideline—it is a critical factor in maritime SAR. The incidents of “Lady R3” and “Van Don Ace” demonstrate that only when each element of this principle is thoroughly prepared and promptly activated can an effective and sustainable SAR response system be established. Drawing lessons from these real-life cases will help improve emergency response capacity and better protect lives and property at sea—true to the proactive, determined, and humanitarian spirit of maritime SAR.