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ES MSAR and AT LUSAR team members are rescuing a victim from a building.

EU MODEX Austria tests joint response to a major earthquake

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In the fourth exercise of EU MODEX Cycle 12, medical and search and rescue teams joined forces in Graz, Austria, to test their interoperability and coordination in a large-scale earthquake scenario.

A complex scenario in the heart of Styria

From 14 to 18 October 2025, the Graz region became the stage for an extensive EU MODEX exercise simulating the aftermath of a 7.8-magnitude earthquake. The disaster scenario involved typical post-earthquake challenges: collapsed buildings, trapped victims, and complex rescue situations in mountainous areas and caves.

Over five days, participating teams trained side by side to deliver life-saving assistance under demanding conditions, reflecting the realities of a large-scale emergency.

Testing coordination and procedures under the UCPM

The exercise focused on improving coordination between operational modules and enhancing understanding of the Union Civil Protection Mechanism (UCPM). Participants worked to strengthen their knowledge of reporting lines, joint decision-making, and the integration of various specialised capacities during international deployments.

Most exercise objectives were fully achieved. Notable progress was observed in the implementation of safety and security procedures, as well as in the exchange of good practices between teams. The exercise also stimulated new ideas for refining standard operating procedures (SOPs) and further developing joint response concepts.

About the author

LOT 3
Project Field exercises for USAR/medical/EUCPT/TAST/ORC "Cycle 12" staff

Field exercises for urban search and rescue modules, medical teams, EUCPT and TAST and other response capacities.