Within the broader context of a nation’s open economic development and the integrated combat system, the strategic importance of the ocean has become increasingly prominent. Establishing a comprehensive maritime search and rescue (SAR) system is a crucial safeguard for a country’s maritime rights and interests. This paper systematically summarizes the maritime SAR systems and forces of developed countries such as the US, the UK, and Japan. It analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of the SAR systems in these developed nations. Furthermore, the paper conducts a summary and analysis of the advanced equipment currently used in international maritime SAR operations, focusing on several key components: alarm communication, regional search, self-rescue and mutual aid, and air-sea rescue. It provides suggestions and opinions for the future improvement of our country’s maritime SAR system.