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. Catherine Schei
K-9s conduct Narcotics Detection Validation Exercise
Marine Corps Base Quantico
May 15, 2025 | 2:59
U.S. Marine Corps Military Police and Working Dog Handlers conduct detection validation exercises on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., May 8, 2025. The Working Dog Handlers and Military Working Dogs conduct detection trainings, patrols, and aggression training weekly to keep both handlers and dogs in a state of constant readiness. (U.S. Marine Corps video by Lance Cpl. Catherine Schei)
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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.