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 Maj. Benjamin Hughes
Maryland National Guard celebrates U.S. Army's 250th Birthday with Governor Wes Moore
175th Wing, Maryland Air National Guard
June 8, 2025 | 4:15
More than 50 Maryland Army National Guard Soldiers celebrated the U.S. Army's 250th Birthday with Governor Wes Moore at the State House in Annapolis, Md., June 7, 2025. Brig. Gen. Andrew Collins, deputy adjutant general for the Maryland National Guard, and Dr. Julie Shively, Maryland National Guard command historian, and Gov. Moore provided remarks during the ceremony. In addition to cutting a ceremonial cake with the oldest and youngest Soldiers, six Soldiers reenlisted and one Soldier was promoted during the event. (Maryland National Guard video by Maj. Benjamin Hughes)
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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.