IMLEX – Integrated Multi-Layer Exercise

Bridging Strategic Decision-Making and

Operational Reality in CBRNe Preparedness

An official IMLEX – Integrated Multi-Layer Exercise will be conducted during the SICC Series – CBRNe Conference 2026 as part of the conference advanced preparedness and training activities.

All registered participants of the conference will have the opportunity to actively participate in this innovative integrated exercise experience, designed to combine strategic decision-making, operational coordination, and selected field activities within realistic and evolving CBRNe scenarios.

The evolving complexity of modern CBRNe scenarios requires innovative training methodologies capable of integrating strategic coordination, operational response, and emerging technologies within dynamic and realistic environments.

To address these challenges, the IMLEX – Integrated Multi-Layer Exercise concept has been developed as an advanced hybrid exercise methodology designed to bridge the gap between traditional Tabletop Exercises (TTX) and Full Scale Exercises (FSE).

IMLEX combines:

• strategic and policy-level decision making,
• operational coordination,
• selected field activities,
• digital simulations,
• Decision Support Systems (DSS),
• AI-enabled tools,
• GIS and plume modelling,
• UAV/UGV integration,
• and multi-agency interoperability

within a single integrated CBRNe scenario.

Unlike conventional tabletop exercises, IMLEX introduces realistic operational components and dynamic injects that enhance situational awareness, communication, interoperability, and adaptive decision-making. At the same time, compared to fully deployed Full Scale Exercises, IMLEX reduces organizational complexity and logistical costs while maintaining a high level of realism and multidisciplinary interaction.

The methodology is particularly suited for:

• CBRNe preparedness and resilience,
• civil–military cooperation,
• crisis management,
• healthcare emergency preparedness,
• critical infrastructure protection,
• hybrid threat response,
• and international interoperability activities.

IMLEX exercises are designed to operate simultaneously across:

• strategic level,
• operational level,
• and tactical level,

allowing participants to experience the full spectrum of crisis evolution and response coordination in multidomain environments.

The IMLEX concept has been ideated and developed by HESAR s.r.l.s. within the framework of advanced CBRNe education, research, innovation, and international training activities connected to the International Master Courses in Protection against CBRNe Events and the SICC Series – CBRNe Conference initiatives.

The infographic below summarizes the core architecture, philosophy, and operational value of the IMLEX approach as a new generation methodology for integrated CBRNe preparedness and training.