Press Release - Arcane Thunder 26

April 7, 2026

MISSION: Multi-Domain Command - Europe (MDC-E) plans, integrates, executes, and assesses long-range precision fires and multi-domain effects for U.S. Army Europe and Africa to destroy enemy A2AD capabilities and disrupt ground forces. In support of theater objectives, MDC-E synchronizes targeting to employ Army lethal and non-lethal fires and effects for land forces to achieve overmatch against any adversary. HISTORY: The 56th Artillery Command was created to serve as the theater fires headquarters for Army forces in Europe to perform the critical role of synchronizing targeting, fires, and non-lethal effects. 2nd Multi-Domain Task Force was activated to support U.S. Army Europe and Africa’s multi-domain operations as a subordinate of the 56th Artillery Command. Based in Mainz-Kastel, Germany, the MDC-E was formed by merging the 56th Artillery Command with the 2nd MDTF serving as a primary ambassador for the concept multi-domain capabilities and integrated affects across Europe and Africa. Today, MDC-E integrates and synchronizes lethal and non-lethal effects across the theater to support Joint and NATO objectives to quickly defeat adversary A2AD capabilities and blunt the mass and momentum of ground forces. (Photo by OCPA)

WIESBADEN, Germany —

U.S. Army Europe and NATO Allies will participate in Exercise Arcane Thunder 26, a multi-domain training event designed to strengthen interoperability and demonstrate the integration of advanced capabilities across the European theater.

The exercise will take place from April 6 to April 29, 2026, across locations in Germany, Poland, and the United States.

Arcane Thunder 26 validates the employment of Multi-Domain Company Teams, specialized formations integrating cyber, space, electronic warfare, and conventional capabilities to create synchronized effects across domains.

"Arcane Thunder 26 marks a pivotal moment in our modernization efforts. We are qualifying Multi-Domain Company Teams to operate in today's complex security environment and across all domains.” Says U.S. Army Col. Jeffery Pickler, commander, 2^nd Multi-Domain Task Force. “Simultaneously, we are experimenting with cutting-edge technology and techniques, which will inform the force for years to come. Arcane Thunder 26 makes our Soldiers more lethal and ensures we and our Allies maintain a decisive advantage.”

The exercise also supports the broader SWORD 26 series, reinforcing NATO regional defense plans and improving the Alliance’s ability to deter aggression and defend the Euro-Atlantic region.

Arcane Thunder 26 highlights the continued transformation of the U.S. Army as it operationalizes multi-domain capabilities and strengthens cooperation with Allies and partners.

U.S. Army Europe and Africa