Abstract: A dedicated distress radiolocation system combines direction-finding techniques with calculations based on signal strength to precisely locate a distress transmission and effect rescue of the person or property in distress. The system is capable of locating a distress transmission solely on the basis of a short duration pulse; however, for identification purposes and for communication reliability a series of pulses is transmitted. The system includes distress transmitters, a plurality of slave repeater units at known locations to receive the distress transmission and report their signal strength to a central station, a central station to calculate the distress transmitter's location based on the measured signal strengths and the known locations of the repeater units and to dispatch a rescue unit, and rescue units equipped with direction finding equipment to approach the distress transmitter. Most actions of the system are undertaken automatically.