Training Platform AXIOS

The ex-HS AXIOS (A-464), formerly a Hellenic Navy auxiliary ship (initially commissioned as FGS Coburg, A-1412) is the Primary Training Platform (TP) involved in practical and theoretical trainings provided by the Centre. More than 110 meters long, with multiple decks and the accommodation philosophy of merchant ships, TP AXIOS is being used for multiple practical training modules such as Small arms training (3020), Tactical sweep (3030), Crew control (3040), RHIB insertion (3060), Boarding under multiple threats (3080) and for Simulated MIO scenarios. It is situated alongside a pier within Souda Naval Base, near the NMIOTC main building.

TP AXIOS is equipped with the Enhanced Training System (ETS) to monitor and record training and also to create a more challenging and realistic environment. ETS comprises 35 cameras and visual, audio effects, like environmental noise from the ship engines, collective announcements in foreign languages, sound blasts, light flashes, smoke and booby traps.

All the effects are controlled from a control room where the instructors can supervise training and synchronize the effects with the trainee’s actions. The recorded video is available to trainees and used for debriefing. ETS increases trainee’s sense of immersion in the training environment and helps to reproduce conditions close to reality in order to provide high quality of training.

For many years, the decommissioned training ship “HS ARIS” (A-74), long used by the Hellenic Naval Academy, had been the Centre’s Primary TP, until July 2025.