This undated file photo shows a P-3 maritime patrol aircraft. (South Korean Navy)
This undated file photo shows a P-3 maritime patrol aircraft. (South Korean Navy)

The Navy conducted maritime search and rescue drills Wednesday in waters off the country's eastern coast as part of an annual combined exercise held between South Korea and the United States.

The exercise, which mobilized a P-3 maritime patrol aircraft, two UH-60 helicopters and two CARV-Ⅱ aircraft, was designed to train troops to swiftly search for and rescue wounded service members and transfer them to a rear area while providing emergency care, according to the Navy.

"The key of air search and rescue and medical support is not missing the golden time to enhance the survivability of the wounded," Col. Jang In-chul, commander of the 63rd Air Group, said in a release, vowing to step up relevant training.

The latest training was conducted in conjunction with the 11-day Freedom Shield exercise, which began Monday. (Yonhap)