On 20 November, KIVI members will have the opportunity to participate in the 'Tactical Decision Game SXM' in Amersfoort. An opportunity out of thousands to get an idea of the intensity of working at tactical level under extreme conditions. After a crash course in 'military decision-making', participants get to work - under supervision - in groups of up to six. The starting situation is the situation on Sint Maarten after the visit of Hurricane Irma.

Tactical Decision Game SXM

"What is it like to lead a military relief operation after a disastrous hurricane storm?"

It is 6 September 2017 when Hurricane Irma passes Sint Maarten, and surrounding islands, with her eye. Irma is a hurricane of the heaviest category and has by far the most energy of the hurricanes of the last 50 years. Wind speeds reach well over 300 km/h and persist for long periods of time. Irma leaves an immense trail of destruction on the island. "It's as if a lawnmower has raced across the island".

Prime Minister Mark Rutten tweeted, "NL is ready to help". The pre-deployed Army and Navy units are the first to put words into action. They find a devastated island. With two more possible hurricanes on the horizon, they must quickly build "situational awareness" and prioritise relief efforts. On top of this, local government services are functioning impaired due to lack of personnel, communications and equipment. Looting breaks out and time is running out: the next hurricane, Jose, is approaching. Fortunately, they can fall back on the strength of the armed forces: adequate decision-making, robust teams and a rock-solid mentality.

The Tactical Decision Game SXM (TDG) is aimed at employees from inside and outside defence who want to get an idea of the intensity of working at tactical level under such conditions. The participant steps into the shoes of military personnel responsible for the reconstruction of essential infrastructure. Moreover, through a crash course in military decision-making, the participant gets an idea of how decisions are made under difficult circumstances. Accompanied by experienced officers, the participant then puts this into practice. The session is open to anyone, even if you have no knowledge of unit deployment at the tactical level.

Source images: Media Centre Defence