COMDTINST 16107.1 — Search And Rescue (sar) Continuous Improvement Program (cip)

COMDTINST 16107.1 governs the Coast Guard Search and Rescue Continuous Improvement Program and its SAR lessons-learned process.

Search COMDTINST 16107.1

  • Publication number: COMDTINST 16107.1
  • Title: SEARCH AND RESCUE (SAR) CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (CIP)
  • Date: 6/18/2024
  • Proponent: CG-5R

View COMDTINST 16107.1 on armypubs.army.mil


It establishes policy and guidance for identifying, collecting, communicating, and retaining critical lessons learned, best practices, and recommended actions. The publication defines SAR after-action report types, including Standard SAR AARs, HFACS AARs, and SAR Analysis Boards.

Applies to: All Coast Guard unit commanders, commanding officers, officers-in-charge, deputy/assistant commandants, and chief of headquarter directorates must comply with the policies contained.

Topics covered

  • SAR continuous improvement
  • SAR after-action reports
  • Lessons learned
  • HFACS AARs
  • SAR Analysis Boards
  • Recommended improvement actions

Questions and answers

What does COMDTINST 16107.1 establish for Coast Guard SAR systems?

The Search and Rescue (SAR) Continuous Improvement Program (CIP), COMDTINST 16107.1, establishes the policy and guidance to identify, collect, communicate, and retain critical lessons learned, best practices, and recommended actions to improve the Coast Guard, U.S. National, and Global SAR systems. (paragraph 1)

What process does the SAR CIP use for lessons learned and corrective actions?

The SAR CIP uses a defined AAR process as a standard method for capturing, transmitting, and retaining lessons learned, best practices, and recommended improvement actions.

When is a Standard SAR AAR discretionary?

The Standard AAR is discretionary unless directed by an operational commander or Commandant (CG-SAR).

When are HFACS AARs required?

HFACS AARs are required when mission coordination challenges or deficiencies contributed, whether directly or indirectly, to negative response outcomes.

Who directs and convenes a SAR Analysis Board?

The SARAB is directed and convened by the Assistant Commandant for Response Policy (CG-5R) and is reserved for only the most complex responses, severe system failures resulting in the loss of life, or events which may impact the Service’s authorities or mission posture.

Ask Reggie.Bot a question about COMDTINST 16107.1