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 Lance Cpl. Benjamin Catindig
Fuji Viper 25.3: Air Delivered Ground Refueling
1st Marine Aircraft Wing
July 18, 2025 | 2:19
U.S. Marines with 1st Marine Aircraft Wing conduct air delivered ground refueling as training to resupply fuel to aircraft in austere environments at Combined Arms Training Center Camp Fuji, Japan, June 12, 2025. 1st MAW supported 4th Marine Regiment’s execution of Fuji Viper 25.3 by providing combat assault transport and aerial escort, aerial delivery operations, and simulated close air support. Fuji Viper is a regularly scheduled training evolution that allows infantry units to maintain their lethality and proficiency in infantry and combined arms tactics. (U.S. Marine Corps video by Lance Cpl. Benjamin Catindig)
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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.