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 Spc. Joseph Liggio
Sgt. Maj. Hastings Highlights Grit and Readiness at Eighth Army Best Squad Competition
8th Army
June 2, 2025 | 2:28
U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Kevin Hastings provides insight into the Eighth Army’s Best Squad Competition on June 1, 2025, at Camp Casey, South Korea. The Eighth Army’s Best Squad Competition features a multitude of different fitness and combat-related events, including individual warrior tasks and squad battle drills. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Joseph Liggio)
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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.