Heraklion will host an international search-and-rescue exercise this weekend, bringing rescue teams from Greece, Malta, Romania and Cyprus to Crete for TALOS 2026.
The exercise runs from October 30 to November 1, with around 40 visiting rescuers and five specially trained rescue dogs taking part alongside local volunteer teams.
Organized by the Humanitarian Crisis Management Team “EPIDRASIS,” TALOS 2026 will put participating teams through realistic emergency scenarios in both open and urban environments.
International Rescue Teams Train Together in Crete
The three-day exercise is designed to strengthen cooperation between rescue teams and allow participants to exchange operational knowledge and experience.
Rather than competing against one another, the teams will train together in scenarios designed to test coordination and readiness for real emergencies.
The exercise also highlights the role of organized volunteer rescue groups in responding to disasters and other emergencies.
Mass-Casualty Exercise Comes to Gazi on Sunday
The main event takes place on Sunday, November 1, when a mass-casualty scenario will be staged at the central Halkiadakis supermarket warehouses in Gazi.
The Heraklion Fire Service will direct and coordinate the exercise.
The scenario marks the culmination of the three-day program, bringing together participating rescue teams for a large-scale operational exercise.
Why TALOS Is Coming to Crete
The exercise is named after Talos, the mythical bronze guardian of Crete.
The organizers say the name reflects the island’s long association with the legendary guardian while emphasizing the modern importance of preparedness, cooperation and humanitarian assistance.
For Heraklion, hosting an international exercise of this kind also adds another dimension to the city’s growing role as a destination capable of accommodating international organizations, professional teams and specialist events.
Participants from Malta, Romania, and Cyprus will also spend time on Crete outside the exercise, strengthening the island’s broader international connections.