British police, fire and ambulance services tested their ability Wednesday to deal with a terrorist attack during the Olympics, swooping on a disused subway station for a drill.
The two-day test -- called "Forward Defensive" -- started at the Aldwych subway station, which has been closed to commuters since 1994. The London Underground maintains the station so it can be used in movies and rented for parties. Its narrow staircases, looping track, tunnel and platform make it the perfect location to simulate dealing with an emergency in close quarters.
One of the primary areas under review was the communications ability of emergency workers, different police services, government ministers and transport officials.
The security exercise involving 2,500 people simulated an attack on one of the busiest days during the 2012 London Olympics. Authorities said the scenario involved
The Olympics present a massive security concern. Ever since 11 Israeli athletes and coaches died in an attack at the 1972 Munich Games, the event has been seen as a magnet for groups anxious to publicize their cause.
British authorities have planned for a threat level for the London games of "severe," meaning an attack is "highly likely."
British authorities have refused to discuss whether there has been any particular threat to the London Olympics, which opens July 27 and ends Aug. 12.