DEFENDER

 

 

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 Sgt. Bernabe Lopez
Deployed Dogface Soldier promotion ceremony: Sgt. Ahmad Ash
3rd Infantry Division
March 9, 2026 | 1:16
U.S. Army Sgt. Ahmad Ash assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division, expresses gratitude during a promotion ceremony while on rotation in Eastern Europe at Boleslawiec, Poland, Feb. 27, 2026. Promotion ceremonies are an opportunity celebrate a milestone and recognize Soldiers for their continued commitment towards excellence. (U.S. Army video by Sgt. Bernabe Lopez)
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enlightenedTo find information about filing a claim related to exercise DEFENDER activities, visit Claims Information and select your country.