TALON 2026

European Crisis Simulation for NRENs

Overview

TALON is the first large-scale, cross-border crisis simulation designed specifically for Europe’s NRENs. Taking place in March 2026, the exercise provides a unique opportunity to test how the NREN community responds to a realistic, high-pressure crisis scenario that unfolds in real time.

Developed under the GÉANT project, TALON is focused on improving operational resilience, cross-border coordination, and crisis communication across the research and education sector in Europe.

A fully booked event

TALON has reached full capacity. The confirmed participants include a diverse mix of large and small NRENs from across Europe, reflecting the range of operational contexts in the community. While the list of participating organisations is not publicly disclosed, the group represents a broad cross-section of the European NREN landscape.

Each organisation will activate its internal crisis response teams and navigate a series of simulated disruptions and decision-making challenges. The exercise will test both internal procedures and the ability to collaborate across borders during a shared incident.

Building on CLAW

TALON builds on the foundations laid by the CLAW crisis management events, which helped NRENs develop, and test internal crisis plans. This new initiative takes things further by simulating a multi-country, real-time incident that mimics the stress and complexity of real-world disruptions.

The scenario is designed to reflect operational realities, such as working with incomplete information, facing communication pressures, managing service continuity, and meeting stakeholder expectations under time constraints.

Looking ahead

In the lead-up to the March 2026 simulation, the TALON team is working closely with all participants to finalise preparations. Key insights and outcomes from the exercise will be shared at GÉANT Security Days 2026 GÉANT on 7-9 April, Utrecht (NL) with the wider community supporting broader sector-wide resilience planning.

Charlie van Genuchten, Project Lead, TALON

To find out more about TALON please complete the contact form.

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