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 Staff Sgt. Cory Reese
XVIII Airborne Corps: Who We Are
XVIII Airborne Corps Public Affairs
June 30, 2025 | 1:47
Soldiers of the XVIII Airborne Corps demonstrate their rapid deployment and combined-arms capabilities during operations and training exercises across Fort Bragg, the United States and Europe, Jun. 30, 2025. Without advance warning, the XVIII Airborne Corps deploys globally, forms a seamless joint and coalition team, and deters or defeats any adversary. (U.S. Army video by Staff Sgt. Cory Reese)
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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.