From 11 to 15 November 2024, the Counter-Improvised Explosive Devices Centre of Excellence (C-IED COE) conducted the Advanced Document and Media Exploitation (DOMEX) Course at its headquarters in Hoyo de Manzanares, Madrid.
The course was officially opened by the Centre’s Director, Colonel Javier Corbacho Margallo, and brought together 10 specialists from various armed forces and law enforcement agencies.
Funded through the Defence Against Terrorism Programme of Work (DAT POW), the course aimed primarily to enhance participants’ expertise in advanced technical exploitation. Particular focus was given to mobile phone exploitation (CELLEX) and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) exploitation, especially in scenarios where the devices have been physically damaged and conventional digital forensic tools are ineffective.
A secondary objective was to support the development and enhancement of national defence capabilities among participating nations, while reinforcing interoperability in support of Allied technical exploitation efforts and operations.
The training combined theoretical instruction with hands-on practical sessions in both CELLEX and UAS domains. These sessions were led by C-IED COE experts alongside external instructors, who employed advanced tools, software, and techniques to deliver an in-depth and applied learning experience.
This course represents a continued commitment by the C-IED COE to advancing technical exploitation capabilities and strengthening cooperation among NATO Allies and partners in the fight against terrorism and improvised threats.