In March 2026, we will launch TALON, the very first simulation-based crisis exercise designed specifically for NRENs. This initiative will enable participating NRENs to test their internal crisis response capabilities—while also exploring how the NREN community collaborates during a shared, cross-border crisis.
To learn more about the exercise and how your NREN can take part, we invite you to join one of our upcoming online infoshares:
23 April, 15:00–16:00 CEST – Register here
23 May, 10:00–11:00 CEST – Register here
A realistic, community-wide simulation
TALON is a one-day, live simulation in which each participating NREN will operate within its own environment, applying its established crisis procedures and mobilising relevant teams. At the same time, the broader exercise will simulate a joint, international crisis unfolding across the NREN landscape—putting inter-organisational coordination and communication to the test.
The simulation will include:
- A media simulator to mimic the response of the public and key stakeholders
- Technical injects to engage operational teams and encourage coordinated action across crisis structures
What will the exercise cover?
TALON is designed to fully activate and assess your NREN’s crisis escalation process while encouraging collaboration with peers across Europe. Key components to be tested include:
- Crisis management team activation
- Internal and external communications workflows
- Involvement of one or more of the following operational units:
NOC
CSIRT
Critical service teams, such as those supporting eduroam, identity federations, or top-level domain services.
The scenario’s impact will vary per NREN and will be shaped in advance by exercise leaders from participating organisations.
Who can join – and what’s required?
Participation is open to a maximum of 10 NRENs for this first edition.
Each participating NREN must commit to appointing an exercise leader who will:
- Join two in-person working sessions to finalise the scenario and tailor it to their organisation.
- Design and deliver injects specific to their NREN.
- Coordinate internal participation and ensure teams are fully briefed.
- Dedicate around 60 hours to planning and execution.
- Need to have a good understanding of your organisation’s crisis procedures and internal workings.
Nominating an observer, responsible for evaluating the exercise and supporting the identification of lessons learned.
Additionally, support from senior leadership is essential.
The exercise is intended to test crisis escalation up to the highest strategic level identified in your organisation’s plans.
How to register
To register your NREN, please email Milan Kuzelka (AMRES) at milan.kuzelka@rcub.bg.ac.rs with the following details:
- Name of your NREN.
- Confirmation of senior management buy-in.
- Name and email address of your nominated exercise leader.
Deadline: 30 September 2025, unless all 10 participation slots are filled earlier.
TALON vs CLAW: complementary experiences
One of our CLAW alumni once said: “CLAW is the football test match – TALON is the actual match.”
CLAW
- Brings participants from different NRENs together.
- Offers training and discussion on crisis response.
- Lets teams experiment and learn in a safe environment.
TALON
- Is a live, scenario-based test at your own NREN.
- Involves your actual crisis team and processes.
- Simulates a realistic crisis, helping test readiness and cross-NREN cooperation.
We encourage NRENs to continue participating in CLAW to build knowledge and confidence—and now also to engage with TALON to put that training into action.
