Signalman 1 & C - Historic Naval Ships Association

Figure 6-3.—Lifesaving signals (page 4 of 4).On the 25th of May 1972, an agreement betweenthe governments of the United States and the SovietUnion on the prevention of incidents on the highseas was signed. This agreement was called theINCSEA agreement. The purpose of thisagreement is to reduce the number of unintendedserious confrontations between the United Statesand Soviet Forces on or over the high seas, topromote safety of operations where the UnitedStates and Soviet Naval and Air Forces operatein proximity, and to avoid the breaking ofdiplomatic relations.As a part of this agreement, the U.S. and Russianwarships and auxiliary vessels will use the signalslisted below:IRIRIRIRJH1 I am engaged in oceanographic operatians.2 I am streaming/towing hydrographic surveyequipment...meters astern.3 I am recovering hydrographic surveyequipment.4 I am conducting salvage operations.5 I am attempting to retract a grounded vessel.6-17