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 Lance Cpl. Michail Stankosky
Korps Mariniers at MCAS Cherry Point BT-9
Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point
April 14, 2025 | 2:20
The Korps Mariniers of the Royal Netherlands Marine Corps recently conducted sea-to-sea live-fire training at Bombing Target 9, located at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, April 8, 2025. This bilateral training exercise enhances operational readiness and tactical proficiency by providing realistic, scenario-based drills, including advanced boat maneuvering and live-fire engagements using M240B machine guns against static sea targets. BT-9 offers access to sea-based training assets not available in the Netherlands, presenting a unique opportunity for the Korps Mariniers to expand their capabilities in a new operational environment. The specialized ranges and outlying training areas at MCAS Cherry Point support the strategic objectives of the Department of Defense and NATO allies by offering distinctive and mission-critical environments that foster interoperability, readiness, and tactical excellence. (U.S. Marine Corps video by Lance Cpl. Michail Stankosky)
More

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.