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. Rachel Hall
B-Roll: Alliance in the Skies: U.S. Army Flyover Honoring Latvian Independence
70th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment
May 5, 2025 | 1:43
U.S. Army soldiers with Alpha Company, 3rd Assault Helicopter Battalion, 501st Aviation Regiment, Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Armored Division, participate in a flyover for the parade celebrating the Day of the Restoration of Latvian Independence at Talsi, Latvia, May 4, 2025. Preparation for the flyover was conducted at Lielvārde air base, Latvia, before the parade and locals stopped by during refueling near Talsi. The Day of the Restoration of Latvian Independence is also observed as a freedom celebration, with a military parade every year since 2012. U.S. presence in Latvia enhances combat readiness, ensuring U.S. forces can operate effectively alongside Latvian and NATO allies in diverse conditions. (U.S. Army video by Sgt. Rachel Hall)
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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.