How do you organize the large-scale transport and care of patients in wartime – from the front line to the Netherlands? This scenario was the focus of the NATO-exercise “Casualty Move 2025” (CAMO25), which took place in Germany.
This was not a practical training exercise with mimes or wounded soldiers, but a complex staff exercise. The focus was on cooperation, decision-making processes and procedures in a civil-military environment – together with NATO partners and EU organizations.
Medical hub in the Netherlands
A simulated medical hub was set up in the Netherlands, where “wounded” from the frontline area were received, triaged and distributed to hospitals for further treatment. The exercise was carried out in close cooperation with civilian and international partners.
Compared to previous CAMO exercises, the scenario was significantly more complex and the simulation more realistic and challenging. This encouraged intensive discussions and provided new insights into dealing with medical emergency situations.
Preparing for a major conflict scenario
The aim of the exercise is to prepare the Netherlands for a potential large-scale military conflict. CAMO2025 focused on medical care and patient transport. At the same time, it was clarified which civilian and military players in the Netherlands bear which responsibilities in the event of an emergency. The exercise also showed how the Dutch structures are embedded in the international structure of NATO and the EU. Cooperation with international partners was further strengthened by CAMO25.
