DEFENDER is the Army’s largest annual opportunity to exercise moving personnel and equipment into theater across modes for initial and follow-on operations critical to Large Scale Combat Operations. Led by U.S. Army Europe and Africa, the exercise focuses on the strategic deployment of CONUS-based forces, employment of Army Prepositioned Stock and follow-on exercises demonstrating lethality and interoperability with Allies and partners

DEFENDER 25 Outreach tour
DEFENDER 25 Infographic

Videos
Video by Senior Airman Christian Corley
Polish Air Force completes first F-35A Lightning II flights
33rd Fighter Wing
Feb. 19, 2025 | 2:26
The Polish Air Force completes their first flights in the F-35A Lightning II at Ebbing Air National Guard Base, Arkansas, Jan 31, 2025. The first flights showcase the modernization of the Polish Air Force, interoperability between NATO nations, and the start of Foreign Military Sales program training at Ebbing, conducted by the 85th Fighter Group. (U.S. Air Force video by Senior Airman Christian Corley)
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What is happening where?

Redirecting...
  • Swift Response

    FinlandItalyLatviaLithuaniaNorwaySwedenSlovenia

  • Immediate Response

    AlbaniaBulgariaCroatiaGreeceKosovoMontenegroNorth MacedoniaSlovakia

  • Saber Guardian

    CzechiaGermanyHungaryRomaniaSlovakia

Press Information

enlightenedTo find information about filing a claim related to exercise DEFENDER activities, visit Claims Information and select your country.