Major earthquake response simulation; Ten foreign nations present for the drill known as Mighty Waves; Rahamim- Israel has to prepare for an earthquake. Statistically, it occurs every 100 years, and this is the right time to prepare and carry out such a drill; Largest drill ever led by the Israeli Navy.

 

In their largest drill ever, the Israeli Navy hosted a multinational drill known as “Mighty Waves,” accompanied by many other branches of the Israeli military. This drill consisted of hundreds of troops, with the United States, France, and Greece contributing naval ships. Additionally, Cyprus, Chile, Italy, Germany, Canada, the UK, and NATO sent officials to observe the event.

The idea was to simulate an earthquake with a magnitude of approx. 7.5, allowing them to test their response time and plan of action. With the goal in mind to save as many lives as possible and minimize the devastation to the surrounding areas, those involved were also targeting the most effective route(s) for retrieving the bodies of the deceased (including those underwater) and the distribution of humanitarian aid to the region. Maj. Amichai Rahamim stated, “Israel has to prepare for an earthquake. Statistically, it occurs every 100 years, and this is the right time to prepare and carry out such a drill,”.

While preparing for a catastrophe like this was a major focus, building a stronger relationship with the foreign naval teams was equally important should an event like this ever occur. “In the past week, the Israeli Navy led a major naval exercise, expressing a significant naval operation. In our view, such exercises are of supreme importance in strengthening the Israeli Navy’s ties with the foreign navies with whom it is likely to cooperate in various events.”, stated Maj. Gen. Eli Sharvit, Commander of the Israeli Navy.

If there’s one thing you know about the Israeli military, it’s that they’re consistent in being at least one step ahead. If there’s something to be learned about them, it’s that they desire to build strong relationships with the world, and Mighty Waves is one example.

In concluding Mighty Waves, Rahamim stated, “After the five-day intensive drill with all sorts of assets, I can say that I’m satisfied that we have moved our country and navy one step forward in preparing for an earthquake, a scenario which we can’t know when it will hit us,” he said. “God willing we won’t face one – but now we are one step forward in being prepared.”

“Behold, He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.”
Psalm 121:4