CROSSFLOOD Main Planning Conference

The CROSSFLOOD consortium opened its MPC with a productive and strategically important planning meeting, bringing together all partners to finalize outstanding points ahead of the upcoming Tabletop Exercise (TTX) and Full-Scale Exercise (FSX). The discussions marked a significant step in ensuring that all components of the project align with operational needs as well as the expectations and requirements of the European Commission, represented by the CROSSFLOOD Project Officer Mr. Per Oyvind Semb, DG ECHO. 

Throughout the two conference days, partners engaged in extensive discussions on the exercise scenario and several injects designed to challenge participating teams. These exchanges allowed for clarification of objectives and confirmation of the operational framework that will guide both the TTX and FSX.

A number of critical FSX topics were addressed, including the deployment of the EU Civil Protection Team (EUCPT), the main events and injects, the structure of the observer program, the evaluation process, and the organization of the Distinguished Visitors Day. The consortium also reviewed its approach to media relations to ensure coherent, accurate, and timely communication throughout the exercise period.

Logistical and technical requirements were another focus of the meeting. Partners examined equipment needs for participating teams and specifications for training props required to realistically simulate challenging CBRNE, EOD and flood-response conditions. These discussions support the project’s commitment to delivering a high-quality, realistic, and safe training environment.

An especially forward-looking topic was the integration of virtual reality tools to enhance the overall training experience. The consortium explored how VR could complement live scenarios, provide immersive learning opportunities, and support teams in developing decision-making skills in complex environments.

The CROSSFLOOD consortium carried out a comprehensive visit to the designated training locations in Suceava, Romania, marking a key milestone in the preparation phase for the upcoming full-scale exercise scheduled for September 2026. The visit brought together consortium partners and operational experts to evaluate the sites, discuss logistical considerations, and finalize outstanding planning details.

During the field visit, members of the consortium assessed the suitability of each potential exercise location, focusing on realism, safety, accessibility, and the capacity to support complex multi-agency flood response scenarios. The team reviewed terrain conditions, infrastructure, and operational space to ensure that the selected locations fully align with the exercise objectives.

The visit also provided an important opportunity to clarify open questions related to scenario setup, resource deployment, and coordination workflows. Consortium representatives met with local stakeholders and site managers to confirm technical requirements and establish clear arrangements for the exercise period.

The MPC proved to be a crucial milestone in aligning operational expectations, technical requirements, and local capacities ahead of the upcoming Tabletop Exercise and Full-Scale Exercise in Suceava. The event brought together an extensive network of local and regional stakeholders, ensuring a shared understanding of roles, responsibilities, and exercise objectives.

The meeting was attended by key Romanian institutions, including representatives from the Department for Emergency Situations (DSU), the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations (IGSU), as well as local and county authorities including:

• Siret Town Hall
• Suceava County Police Inspectorate
• County Gendarmerie Inspectorate “Bogdan Vodă” Suceava
• Office of Vamal Siret
• Border Police Siret
• Suceava Water Management System
• Independent Hydrotechnical System Siret
• Suceava County Ambulance Service
• Romanian Red Cross – Suceava Branch