A large-scale search and rescue operation is currently ongoing off the coast of Hastings, following the discovery of debris believed to be from a vessel this morning. The operation involves multiple agencies including the Navy, the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), and the UK Border Force.

The initial alarm was raised at 8:45 AM when parts of a vessel were spotted in the waters south of Hastings. In response, HM Coastguard has coordinated a comprehensive search effort, deploying a Coastguard search and rescue helicopter, a fixed-wing aircraft, and the RNLI’s all-weather lifeboat from Hastings. Additional support is being provided by nearby vessels.

Timeline of the Search Operation:

The search area has been expanded northwards, closer to Hastings. The Coastguard helicopter has adjusted its search pattern to cover this new area. The patrol vessel Watchful has also joined the operation, enhancing the search capabilities.

The ongoing search is located just north of a major westbound shipping route that leads towards the Atlantic, highlighting the critical nature of the search in busy maritime corridors.

Confirmation of vessel debris in the water was first reported this morning, prompting immediate action from local and national maritime assets.

The vessels involved in the search include the RNLI all-weather lifeboat from Hastings, the Border Force vessel Seeker from Dover, and the Finnish minelayer FNS Uusimma, which was en route to Cadiz, Spain, from Turku, Finland.

The concentrated search efforts are taking place approximately eight nautical miles off the Hastings coast, with several ships and the Coastguard helicopter actively scanning the area.

Authorities have yet to determine the origin of the debris or the circumstances under which it came to be in the water. The situation remains fluid with ongoing developments expected as the search continues.

Local officials and the Coastguard are urging the public and nearby maritime traffic to stay clear of the search area to ensure the safety of the responders and the efficiency of the operation. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available in this developing situation.