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 Senior Airman Matthew Arachikavitz
11th Airborne Division and 4th ANGLICO jump during RF-A 25-2
92nd Air Refueling Wing
June 27, 2025 | 10:48
U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to the 11th Airborne Division and U.S. Marine Corps Marines assigned to the 4th Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company jump from a C-130 Hercules during Red Flag-Alaska 25-2 at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, June 18, 2025. This exercise simulates the complexities of potential Indo-Pacific scenarios, providing unique opportunities to integrate various forces into joint, coalition and multilateral training from simulated forward operating bases, enhancing the U.S. and allies’ ability to respond effectively to contingencies in the region. (U.S. Air Force video by Senior Airman Matthew Arachikavitz)
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Press Information

enlightenedTo find information about filing a claim related to exercise DEFENDER activities, visit Claims Information and select your country.