ACR Electronics, the leading provider of safety and survival equipment, is launching its latest innovation in maritime safety technology – the Pathfinder AIS SART (Search and Rescue Transmitter).

The new AIS SART builds upon the success of its predecessor, the ACR Pathfinder Pro SART, combining proven reliability with cutting-edge AIS (Automatic Identification System) technology to advance search and rescue efforts at sea.

The ACR Pathfinder Pro has long been trusted by mariners worldwide for its compliance with IMO SOLAS regulations and its ability to significantly enhance search and rescue operations. With its 12 intense blips returned to radar screens upon interrogation, superior lithium battery life, and versatile mounting options, the Pathfinder Pro has been a staple for vessels requiring GMDSS compliance.

Now, with the introduction of AIS functionality, the Pathfinder AIS SART offers a new level of maritime safety. Unlike traditional radar signals, the Pathfinder AIS provides increased visibility, with its distress signals received and displayed on any AIS-receivers installed on nearby ships, SAR vessels, and aircraft. The AIS signals can also be picked up by AIS-equipped vessels and shore stations over a longer range.

This next generation SART, which utilizes GPS technology, can precisely transmit the vessel’s location and status, and provide more accurate positioning information. This real-time data exchange greatly improves situational awareness and coordination among rescuers, it allows vessel tracking to prevent collisions, and expedites response times to increase the likelihood of a swift and successful rescue, even in remote or less trafficked areas.

“Utilizing precise AIS technology in our new GMDSS SARTs represents another pivotal advancement in maritime safety,” said Mikele D’Arcangelo, Vice President of Global Marketing and Product Management, ACR Electronics. “We are leveraging these great AIS capabilities to empower mariners, giving them enhanced visibility and communication during emergencies. Ultimately, helping to save more lives at sea.

“ACR Electronics remains committed to providing the highest standard of safety equipment for the maritime industry, and the launch of the AIS-SART reaffirms this commitment.”

In addition to its AIS functionality, the Pathfinder AIS also provides users with Near-Field Communications, or NFC capabilities, which allows for use with the ACR mobile App to view self-test, programming and beacon performance metrics.

The new AIS version of the Pathfinder retains all the features which have made the Pathfinder Pro a trusted companion for mariners, including its rugged design, long battery life, and versatile mounting options.

The ACR Pathfinder AIS is designed to help search and rescue services to quickly locate a life raft in the event of a rescue at sea. The AIS SART can either be stowed in a life raft or mounted next to emergency exits and then carried to the life raft in an emergency.

ACR will continue to manufacture the Pathfinder Pro Radar SART alongside the new Pathfinder AIS SART, providing customers with the technology options they trust to keep them compliant and safe at sea.

For more information about the AIS SART and other ACR Electronics products, please visit www.acrartex.com.