CROSSFLOOD FSX international exercise enters operational phase in Romania

The international civil protection exercise CROSSFLOOD FSX has entered its operational phase in the Romanian counties of Suceava and Botoșani. The drill involves hundreds of rescuers from six different countries testing response capacities for complex flood and crisis scenarios.

Simulations include the use of high-capacity pumps, boats, and CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear) equipment. Specific scenarios involve managing unexploded ordnance brought by floods, requiring pyrotechnic intervention, and simulating an explosion at an ammunition depot. Authorities also utilized Virtual Reality technology to conduct damage assessment flights to analyze simulated flood effects.

The exercise includes international coordination, such as simulating the arrival of Ukrainian rescue teams through the Siret border crossing and managing international forces at the Suceava Stefan cel Mare Airport. Training also covers mine awareness adapted for post-conflict environments.