International cooperation following major earthquakes was the focus of a large-scale exercise in Taiwan. ISAR Germany and the partner organisation BRH took part as observers. The exercise was organised to mark the 25th anniversary of the earthquake on 21 September 1999 and involved search and rescue teams from Taiwan, the Philippines, South Korea, Japan and Fiji. The focus was on rescue measures, technical innovations and medical aid. The team from ISAR Germany and BRH had the opportunity to follow the work of the rescue dogs as well as technical and medical operations.
Technological innovations, such as the use of drones for damage assessment and the use of mobile operating theatres, were tested intensively. Drinking water treatment, the distribution of relief supplies and cooperation with military and civilian rescue units also played a central role. Simulations took place over three days, covering all ASR levels and depicting a realistic earthquake scenario.
A key element was international cooperation and the exchange of knowledge between the teams. The exercise provided a valuable platform for discussing new approaches and developing joint deployment strategies for future disasters. In particular, the use of the International Civil-Military Coordination System (ICMS) facilitated cooperation between civilian and military forces and ensured the efficient distribution of relief supplies.
The Taiwanese President's visit emphasised the importance of international cooperation.