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. Christian Cutter
Marine Monday: Cpl Essen
Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort
Jan. 8, 2025 | 1:18
U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Michael Essen, air traffic control communications technician, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, is awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal at MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina, June 3, 2024. The Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal is a mid-level military decoration awarded to members of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps for meritorious service or achievement in a non-combat or combat role. (U.S. Marine Corps video by Lance Cpl. Christian Cutter)
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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.