Refers to the act of saving people or vessels in distress, especially in maritime or disaster contexts. Often used in compound nouns.
海上保安庁の救難活動は迅速だった。
The Japan Coast Guard's rescue operation was swift.
遭難船から救難信号が発信された。
A distress signal was sent from the ship in distress.
search and rescue aircraft; rescue plane
rescue ship; salvage boat
search and rescue; SAR
distress signal; SOS
lifebuoy
rescue helicopter
Compound of 救 (save, rescue) and 難 (difficulty, distress). The combination directly conveys rescuing from a difficult or dangerous situation.