PacWave26 provides, through the support of TSPs and ITIC, a valuable opportunity for Pacific countries to test PTWS Tsunami Service Provider (TSP) arrangements, to test new products (where relevant), to review their tsunami preparedness arrangements and operational procedures to respond and recover from a destructive tsunami, to test internal and external communication systems, to engage with communities through public education activities, and to engage regionally in coordination and cooperation. Regular exercises are important for maintaining staff readiness in case of a real event. This is especially true for tsunamis which are infrequent but require a rapid response when they occur.

PacWave26 will also conduct its first trial transmission of maritime safety products from PTWC to NAVAREA operators through NTWC.

Every PTWS country is encouraged to participate to all applicable modes of exercise, as outlined below, and to support the International Disaster Risk Reduction Day (13 October) and World tsunami Awareness Day (5 November) through:

• One Live communication test from PTWS TSPs to Member States on 5 November 2026 at 0000 UTC;
• One Live NAVAREA communications test from PTWC to each NAVAREA Coordinator and to the NTWC of the country responsible for that NAVAREA on 5 November 2026 at 0100 UTC; A regional Pacific Wave exercise between Member States of a regional tsunami warning and mitigation system.
• A national Pacific Wave exercise between 1 September and 30 November 2026 within each participating country;