EU MODEX Portugal

The scenario described above was what the international teams and I faced as soon as we arrived in Seixal. Thankfully, there had been no seaquake nor any real widespread damage to the infrastructure. Everyone was safe – this was a European Module Exercise (EU MODEX) to train Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) modules within the scope of the UCPM. Participating in this EU MODEX in Portugal as an observer, I felt not only like I was faced with a real natural catastrophe but I was also able to learn about an international deployment. Most importantly, this turned out to be a real eye-opener for me as a Portuguese citizen, as I experienced firsthand how my national authorities (ANEPC, GNR, INEM and others) interact with each other and coordinate with international actors in times of crisis. It did not take long for me to feel a strong sense of pride in my country’s Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR), as it outstandingly – and committedly – hosted this exercise.

As in any other EU MODEX, the exercise personnel had different functions: coach/trainers followed the participating modules and were responsible for monitoring the module’s operation; safety officers were in charge of checking the location/venue objects prior to the start of the scenario; an ERCC liaison officer interacted with the international teams to bring in the realism of reporting; role players tested the ability of the participants to engage with operational and tactical level representatives from local authorities and with high-profile personalities; there were also classifiers, evaluators, and – of course – many role-players simulating the injured. The exercise tested interoperability, coordination, self-sufficiency, ability to communicate and report, and evaluation and improvement of standard operating procedures.

Four modules came together in this exercise:  1) SEEBA Heavy: a German Heavy USAR module, 2) EST MUSAR: an Estonian Medium USAR module 3) ERICAM: a Spanish Medium USAR module 4) ESP-01 RPAS: Spanish Remotely Piloted Aircraft System module.

An important element in this exercise was the reclassification of the Estonian Medium USAR, following its classification by INSARAG in 2015. Another highlight was the visit of the Secretary of State for Home Affairs of Portugal, Patrícia Gaspar – received with a warm welcome from the staff and participants – her former colleagues and friends from the field.

For Bruno Lopes, GNR and Deputy Venue Manager, logistics was the biggest challenge “Almost 600 people were involved in this exercise. It is complex to arrange accommodation, transport, and meals for everyone.” Planning started six months before the exercise, and the local population was informed not to be caught by surprise.