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 Sgt. 1st Class Nicolas A. Cloward
Washington National Guard Engineers support community through Innovative Readiness Training Program
96th Troop Command
June 25, 2025 | 1:08
U.S. Soldiers with the 176th Engineer Company, 420th Chemical Battalion, 96th Troop Command, Washington National Guard, finalize construction of a restroom facility at Charter Park in Orting, Wash., June 20, 2025. The Charter Park Restroom Project, which broke ground in 2024, is a collaboration between the Washington National Guard and the City of Orting through the Innovative Readiness Training program, a Department of Defense initiative that offers real-world military training and experience, while providing U.S. communities with key services and enhancements. (U.S. Army National Guard video by Sgt. 1st Class Nicolas Cloward)
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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.