EDA organises a Countering Improvised Explosives Devices (CIED) Basic Search Course in early summer 2011 in Rome. This two week course will be hosted by Italy at the National C-IED Centre of Excellence, in Cecchignola. Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) are a significant cause of casualties for European troops on deployed operations. They restrict freedom of movement and give the initiative to an adversary. They often have a strategic political effect gained through the media influencing national will in the home countries. Therefore, it is essential for European Forces to maintain the initiative on deployed operations and, therefore to conduct a comprehensive and effective campaign to counter the effects of IEDs at every level. Countering IEDs is one of the top ten priorities stemming from the Capability Development Plan and “Search” is one of the advertised work-streams within CIED. Military Search is the management and application of systematic procedures and appropriate equipment to locate specified targets in support of military operations. Military Search is subcategorised as Advanced and Intermediate, which require a formal capability development process and training, and Basic. All military personnel should be prepared to conduct Basic Search in the performance of their assigned missions and duties on a continuing basis. Basic Search is a key building block of the overall search capability and an important force protection measure. This Course is open to participating Member States’ nominees only. A one day industrial exhibition is planned. More information: marco.pennisi@esercito.difesa.it; chiara.gabbrielli@eda.europa.eu or jim.blackburn@eda.europa.eu.