![](https://emergencyservicestimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/ESS-Button-resized.png")
Up to 600 members of the emergency services, armed forces and partner agencies have taken part in a large-scale national exercise designed to test the UK’s ability to respond to a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear or Explosive (CBRNE) incident.
The exercise, jointly delivered by Eastern Region Counter Terrorism Policing and the Ministry of Defence, took place in Papworth, Cambridgeshire between 4–7 November. It brought together operational partners to simulate a complex national security emergency under heightened threat conditions, ensuring personnel are trained and prepared to respond rapidly and collaboratively in the event of a real-world incident.
Participants were tasked with managing a simulated CBRNE scenario involving the release of hazardous materials and several improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The exercise tested joint working practices, command structures, and specialist response capabilities, including those of the Technical Response Force.
Officials described the event as highly successful, demonstrating strong interoperability and effective coordination between agencies. The exercise supports the Government’s Plan for Change and aligns with the UK’s Resilience Action Plan, both of which aim to strengthen the nation’s ability to respond to major emergencies.
Although the malicious use of CBRNE materials remains significantly less likely than conventional attacks, such incidents continue to represent a serious threat to national security, according to the National Risk Register. Scenarios could include terrorist use of chemical or biological agents, hazardous materials releases, or large-scale poisonings.
Deputy Assistant Commissioner Jon Savell, from Specialist Operations at Counter Terrorism Policing, said that the exercise underlined the importance of partnership working:
“Our ability to respond to complex threats depends on the strength of our partnerships. The close working relationship between Counter Terrorism Policing, local policing and our partner agencies is not just about systems and procedures — it’s about trust, communication and a shared purpose.
“Exercises like this ensure we continue to build that collaboration, so we can respond swiftly and effectively when it matters most to keep the public safe.”
Security Minister Dan Jarvis praised the exercise for reinforcing national preparedness:
“Joint training is vital to ensure that our policing partners, armed forces and emergency responders can work seamlessly together to protect the British public from a range of threats, including chemical, biological and radiological incidents.
“Their ongoing training and preparation ensures that when an incident happens, the UK can respond rapidly, effectively and with confidence.”
The annual CBRNE exercise is part of a long-standing programme designed to test and enhance the UK’s multi-agency coordination. It brings together the Render Safe capability — which focuses on neutralising and safely disposing of CBRNE devices — with emergency services and specialist teams across government.
Underpinned by the Joint Emergency Services Interoperability Principles (JESIP), the UK maintains a robust and coordinated approach to national resilience. This includes equipping and training first responders, investing in advanced analytical and attribution capabilities, and collaborating with wider partners to understand and mitigate emerging risks.
Routine but critical exercises such as this one ensure that the UK’s emergency response remains tested, coordinated and ready to be deployed, helping to build the resilience and preparedness needed to keep the public safe.
To read similar articles, check out our Leadership channel
