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 Markus Rauchenberger
2nd Cavalry Regiment Battle Patch Ceremony
Training Support Activity Europe
March 13, 2025 | 4:30
U.S. Soldiers assigned to 2nd Cavalry Regiment conduct a battle patch ceremony at Rose Barracks, Vilseck, Germany, Feb. 28, 2025. The battle patch worn on the Soldiers helmet symbolizes the bond among Dragoons, embodying the regiment’s unique heritage and mission. (U.S. Army video by Markus Rauchenberger)
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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.