Cargo ships greater than 500 tons, as well as all passenger ships, must have how many SARTs?

Cargo ships greater than 500 tons and all passenger ships are required to have two Search and Rescue Transponders (SARTs) on board. This requirement is in accordance with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) regulations, which emphasize the importance of safety equipment for effective search and rescue operations.

Having two SARTs enhances the vessel's capability to signal their position to rescuers, especially in situations where one SART may become inoperable or is inadvertently damaged. It also provides redundancy, ensuring that there is always a working device available to increase the chances of a successful rescue in emergencies.

The idea of having just one or a higher number than two does not align with the standard regulations, which prioritize reliability and efficient emergency response. Thus, the requirement for two SARTs is both a regulatory mandate and a best practice to promote safety at sea.