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 Senior Airman Michelle Ferrari
Holloman AFB Conducts Large Force Exercise at Homestead Air Reserve Base
49th Wing
March 28, 2025 | 6:26
U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 49th Wing conducted a Large Force Exercise at Homestead Air Reserve Base, Florida, from Feb. 28 until March 15, 2025. The Flock Fest 25 exercise involved over 170 personnel from various military branches and units, providing invaluable cross-service training and operational experience for Airmen preparing for future deployments aimed at enhancing adaptability in dynamic conditions. (U.S. Air Force video by Senior Airman Michelle Ferrari)
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What is happening where?

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  • 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.