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. Orlanys Diaz Figueroa
U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant receives the Commanding General’s Cowbell Award for improvements to F-35 maintenance equipment
2nd Marine Aircraft Wing
June 13, 2025 | 4:10
U.S. Marine Corps Gunnery Sgt. William Sullivan, from Wisconsin, an airframes mechanic with Marine Fighter Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT) 501, receives a Cowbell Award for developing a metal shield for the maintainers' portable maintenance aids at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, June 5, 2025. The Cowbell Award is given by the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (MAW) commanding general to recognize Marines and Sailors who actively seek out and implement improvements that enhance the overall effectiveness of the 2nd MAW. (U.S. Marine Corps video by Lance Cpl. Orlanys Diaz Figueroa)
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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.