DEFENDER

 

 

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 Airman 1st Class Aaron Hill
2025 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl hosts 2nd Bomb Wing
2nd Bomb Wing
Jan. 9, 2026 | 1:11
U.S. Air Force Airmen and football fans attend the 2025 Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl at Independence Stadium in Shreveport, Louisiana, Dec. 30, 2025. The game featured a flyover by two B-52H Stratofortress aircraft and recognition of B-52 aircrew from Barksdale Air Force Base, taking an opportunity to partner with the local community and showcase the pride of the U.S. Air Force and the crucial role of the B-52 in support of national defense. (U.S. Air Force video by Senior Airman Aaron Hill)
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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.