Crete hosts TALOS 2026 international search and rescue exercise

The international search and rescue exercise, titled “TALOS 2026 – The Guardians of Crete,” is taking place in Crete from October 30 to November 1. Organized by the Humanitarian Crisis Management Team “EPIDRASIS,” the event brings together rescue teams from Greece, Malta, Romania, Hungary, and Cyprus.

Approximately 40 rescuers and specialized K9 search and rescue teams are participating in realistic training scenarios involving urban, semi-urban, and mountain environments. The exercise aims to enhance operational readiness, foster international cooperation, and allow for the exchange of specialized knowledge among volunteer and professional groups.

The program will culminate on Sunday, November 1, with a mass-casualty scenario staged at the Halkiadakis supermarket warehouses in Gazi, coordinated by the Heraklion Fire Service.