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 Staff Sgt. Chau Le
Ep 2 | Enduring Valor | Full Episode | Realm of Service Docuseries | Cal Guard Documentary Films
California National Guard Primary
May 30, 2025 | 1:33
U.S. Army Spc. Dzianis Yafremenka, finance management technician, 251st Finance Management Company, battles fierce competition during the training year 2025 California Best Warrior Competition. Amid the challenges of his military duties and personal journey, Yafremenka demonstrated exceptional dedication and resilience. Emerging victorious in the junior enlisted category, Yafremenka earned the honor of representing California at the Regional VII Best Warrior Competition held in May 2025 in Arizona. (U.S. Army National Guard video by Sgt. Chau Le)
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Redirecting...
  • Swift Response

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  • 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.