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 Daisy Quevedo
126th ARW uses total force integration to dominate nuclear response drill during certification course
375th Air Mobility Wing
May 15, 2025 | 2:16
U.S. Air Force Airmen assigned to the 126th Air Refueling Wing conduct an alert response during a nuclear readiness exercise at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, April 7, 2025. The drill enhanced the wing’s crisis response capabilities and demonstrated seamless coordination under Total Force Integration initiatives. (U.S. Air Force video by Airman 1st Class Daisy Quevedo)
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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.