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 Petty Officer 2nd Class Stephanie Contreras
250611-MIS-PACUP-Bodybuilding Competition
AFN Misawa
June 16, 2025 | 1:00
Misawa Air Base Japan held Misawa's Nothern Japan Body Building Competition on June 7, 2025. Patrick Coleman, Head Judge of the competition, spoke about how the event represents promotes U.S. and Japan's friendship through competition. Akim Williams, a professional bodybuilder, a guest for the event talks about how this event gives military members a chance to experience a bodybuilding competition. (U.S. Navy Video by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Stephanie Contreras)
More

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.