# Search and rescue operations in Lake Van

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/search-and-rescue-operations-in-lake-van
> Updated: 2026-10-09T07:47:31.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Search and rescue operations and training activities are being conducted around Lake Van in Turkey. 

Initial efforts focused on specialized drills by the İHAKUT team in the Edremit district. These exercises tested aviation technology, specifically using a student-developed unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capable of carrying a 6-kilogram payload to deliver life jackets to simulated missing persons. The drills aimed to optimize communication and response times through aerial detection and coordination.

Complementing these technological tests, the Van Fire Department’s eight-member professional Underwater Search and Rescue Team maintains 24/7 standby readiness. This team handles drowning incidents, missing persons, vehicle recovery, and boat accidents. To ensure rapid intervention, the team undergoes regular training in diving and search methods under challenging conditions, coordinating with AFAD, police, and gendarmerie units.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-09: Van Underwater Search and Rescue Team on 24/7 Standby

An eight-member professional underwater search and rescue team in Van, Turkey, remains on 24/7 standby to handle drownings, missing persons, and vessel accidents in Lake Van and surrounding waters.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/van-underwater-search-and-rescue-team-on-247-standby

### 2026-09-24: İHAKUT conducts search and rescue drill at Lake Van

The İHAKUT Van team conducted a search and rescue drill at Lake Van, utilizing a student-developed UAV capable of carrying 6kg to deliver emergency supplies like life jackets.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/ihakut-conducts-search-and-rescue-drill-at-lake-van

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Cite as: Search and rescue operations in Lake Van. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/search-and-rescue-operations-in-lake-van