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 Staff Sgt. Gaspar Cortez
Valkyries Arrive at Astral Knight 24
48th Fighter Wing
May 31, 2024 | 4:06
The F-35A Lightning II’s assigned to the 495th arrive at Powidz Air Base, Poland, for Astral Knight 24 May 10, 2024. AK24 is U.S. European Command’s capstone integrated air and missile defense exercise focused on demonstrating joint Allied IAMD for regional defense testing deployment and sustainment of IAMD assets and capabilities. (U.S. Air Force video by Staff Sgt. Gaspar Cortez)
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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.