RECCO System
RECCO SAR System: a future project for Peru
Locating missing persons in mountainous terrain and hard-to-reach areas poses a major challenge. SAR24 plans to introduce RECCO SAR technology in Peru to strengthen search and rescue operations.
This system uses a helicopter-mounted detector to locate individuals carrying a RECCO reflector—either integrated into their gear or attached to backpacks and helmets.
Technology characteristics
- Year-round search capabilities across vast areas of terrain.
- Coverage of up to 1 km² in approximately 6 minutes under ideal conditions.
- Scanning from an altitude of about 100 meters, at speeds of up to 100 km/h, covering swaths up to 100 meters wide.
Our goal is to drive its future implementation in Peru. This project is not yet operational within SAR24; its development will depend on resources, coordination, and technical conditions.
RECCO is a technology that helps rescuers locate people in avalanches and across large natural areas. It operates using two components: a reflector carried by the individual and a detector used by rescue teams. Recco
It is simple to operate
- The detector emits a radar signal toward the search area.
- The RECCO reflector returns the signal as an echo. It requires no battery or activation and can be integrated into clothing, helmets, boots, or backpacks.
Rescuers follow the signal: the closer they get to the reflector, the stronger the response, allowing them to pinpoint its location.
There are portable detectors, used primarily in avalanche rescues, and helicopter-mounted detectors, which allow for the scanning of large areas. The latter can search up to 1 km² in approximately 6 minutes under ideal conditions. To locate a person using this system, the individual must be carrying a RECCO reflector, and the rescuers must have the corresponding detector.
Implementation Project in Peru
SAR24 plans to promote the adoption of RECCO SAR helicopter detectors in Peru, intended for the search for missing persons in mountainous areas and regions that are difficult to access.
The initiative involves fostering coordination among authorities, air operators, and rescue teams, as well as providing specialized personnel training and establishing strategic bases to serve various regions of the country.
This project is currently in the planning stage and is not yet operational.
Joint effort to strengthen rescue operations in Peru
The SAR24 project aims to foster collaboration with the Peruvian National Police, the Police Aviation Directorate (DIRAVPOL), the Armed Forces, the Peruvian Air Force’s specialized search and rescue (SAR) teams, and mountain rescuers.
Our proposal involves coordinating helicopter support, specialized personnel, and ground teams for missing person searches, rescues, and evacuations in mountainous areas and regions that are difficult to access.
With the future integration of the RECCO SAR system, we aim to conduct faster, more effective, and safer search operations, thereby strengthening response capabilities in Peru.
HOW RECCO TECHNOLOGY WORKS
As part of our future implementation project in Peru, SAR24 promotes awareness of RECCO technology for search and rescue operations.
To be located using this system, one must carry a RECCO rescue reflector. This passive device requires no battery and can be integrated into clothing and gear or purchased separately.
The detector emits a signal that the reflector returns as an echo. The closer the rescue team is, the stronger the signal, allowing the search to be directed toward the person.
Where is the reflector worn?
- Backpack: using a reflector designed to attach to it.
- Helmet: using an adhesive reflector.
- Belt: with integrated reflectors.
In avalanche-prone areas, it is crucial that the reflector remains attached to the person. A detached backpack could lead the search toward the gear instead of the wearer.
SAR24 views this technology as a future project; it does not currently offer RECCO SAR detector searches in Peru.
More information about RECCO technology
Official website: https://recco.com/technology/
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