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 Sgt. Joaquin Vasquez-Duran
207th Military Intelligence Brigade - Theatre practice combatives with Pugil Sticks
207th Military Intelligence Brigade (Theater)
April 16, 2025 | 1:00
U.S. Army Soldiers of the 207th Military Intelligence Brigade - Theater, sharpen their combat instincts with pugil sticks, Feb. 2025, in Vicenza, Italy.

Modeled after bayonet combat, this intense full-contact drill hones offensive and defensive techniques, testing endurance, resilience, and tactical precision. Every strike builds confidence. Every block reinforces readiness. Every session pushes Soldiers closer to battlefield dominance.

(U.S. Army Video by Sgt. Joaquin D. Vasquez-Duran)
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Press Information

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