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 Airman 1st Class Andre Medina
In my Boots: Mental Health
35th Fighter Wing
May 9, 2025 | 1:44
U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. John Hanson, 35th Medical Group mental health noncommissioned officer in charge, discusses his work at the 35th Fighter Wing (FW) and the mental health resources available to Airmen at Misawa Air Base, Japan, May 9, 2025. By providing preventative care, counseling services and crisis intervention, the Mental Health Clinic strengthens force readiness in the 35th FW by helping Airmen stay mentally resilient, mission-focused and able to perform in high-pressure environments. (U.S. Air Force video by Airman 1st Class Andre Medina)
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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.