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 Shawn Monk
Tanker Taxi
171st Air Refueling Wing
April 3, 2025 | 3:12
Pennsylvania Air National Guard KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft taxi on the flight line at the 171st Air Refueling Wing located near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, April 2, 2025. The primary mission of the 171st Air Refueling Wing is to provide in-flight refueling to Department of Defense and NATO aircraft.  In doing so, the unit provides resources for global engagement to meet national objectives, and to assist local and state authorities at the direction of the governor.  The 171st also supports the Homeland Defense mission on a daily basis. (U.S. Air National Guard video by Shawn Monk)
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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.