UK International Search and Rescue (UK ISAR) travelled to Georgia in March 2026 to deliver a seven-day joint training mission with the Georgian Urban Search and Rescue team (GEO-01). The programme marked the first collaboration of its kind between the two teams and the first time UK ISAR has delivered its accredited International Operations Course overseas.
Supported and funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the training aimed to enhance operational capability, strengthen interoperability, and support the continued development of Georgia’s newly classified INSARAG Light USAR team.
The programme brought together three core training elements: an Advanced Search and Rescue (ASR) Masterclass, the International Operations Course, and a specialist Timber Shoring course. Each component was designed to build both technical expertise and leadership capability in complex disaster response environments.
The ASR Masterclass formed the backbone of the programme, focusing on the structured application of INSARAG-compliant methodology. Delivered over five days, the course combined classroom learning with progressively challenging field exercises. Participants developed skills in coordination, command and control, and worksite triage, using systems such as the International Coordination and Management System (ICMS) and digital tools including Survey123.
Training scenarios included sector-based operations, engagement with Local Emergency Management Authorities (LEMA), and the management of multiple worksites within a simulated disaster environment. The course culminated in a full-scale joint field exercise, led by the Georgian management team, demonstrating effective interoperability between UK ISAR and GEO-01 personnel.
Alongside this, UK ISAR delivered its International Operations Course to ten Georgian personnel identified as current or future Crew Leaders. Using a scenario-based approach, the course focused on leadership, situational awareness, communication, and international coordination.
Participants gained practical experience through repeated LEMA meetings and operational planning exercises, improving confidence in working with host nations and international partners. The importance of communication, cultural awareness, and accountability to affected populations was a key theme throughout, reinforcing the behaviours required for effective international deployments.
Exposure to UK ISAR technology, including tools such as ERG and Google Earth, further enhanced participants’ ability to gather information and develop structured operational plans. Feedback from delegates highlighted strong engagement and a clear commitment to sharing knowledge across their wider teams.
In parallel, a team of UK ISAR timber shoring specialists delivered a dedicated course to develop advanced structural stabilisation capability within GEO-01. Training progressed from tool familiarisation and safe operation through to the construction of a wide range of shoring systems, including vertical, horizontal, laced post, and raking shores.
Participants moved beyond basic techniques to successfully apply Class 1, 2, and 3 shoring methods in practical scenarios. Continuous mentoring supported strong progression in both confidence and technical ability, with the team ultimately exceeding the expected capability of an INSARAG Light USAR team.
One member of GEO-01 was recognised as the top-performing candidate, reflecting a consistently high standard of participation and development across the group.
