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

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Video by Sgt. Gregory Menke
Best Sapper Day Two
Defense Media Activity - Army Productions
June 11, 2025 | 0:56
FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. (June 4, 2025) – Competitors in the 2025 Best Sapper Competition pushed through Day Two. Grueling events designed to test physical endurance, mental toughness, and combat engineering proficiency. From ruck marches and demolitions to technical lanes, teams demonstrated grit and determination as they vied for the title of Best Sapper.
(U.S. Army video by [SGT Gregory Menke.)
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enlightenedTo find information about filing a claim related to exercise DEFENDER activities, visit Claims Information and select your country.