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 Staff Sgt. Ryan Pulliam
RSS Spring Poolee Function
8th Marine Corps District
May 23, 2025 | 0:47
U.S. Marine Corps poolees with Recruiting Sub Station Spring, Recruiting Station Houston, attend a poolee function at Meyer Park in Spring, Texas, May 10, 2025. The poolees conducted an initial strength test, a Moment of Truth, and received mentorship from Sgt. Maj. Roshod Browning, the RS Houston sergeant major. (U.S. Marine Corps video by Staff Sgt. Ryan H. Pulliam)
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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.