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. Elijah Campbell
Heike Hartgrove: Civilian of the Year 2024
21st Theater Sustainment Command
May 29, 2025 | 0:46
Heike Hartgrove, a civilian Rail Operation Specialist assigned to the 21st Theater Sustainment Command, commented on winning the Civilian of the Year award on Panzer Kaserne, Kaiserslautern, Germany, May 28, 2025. The Civilian of the Year award is given to civilian service employees for their exemplary conduct and commitment to their duties throughout the fiscal year. For five years, Hartgrove has provided logistical support to the 21st Theater Sustainment Command. (U.S. Army video by Spc. Elijah Campbell)
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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.