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 Brandon Dorrill
Best Ranger Competition Day 2 EPK (H)
Fort Benning Public Affairs Office
May 15, 2025 | 8:02
The 41st David E. Grange Jr. Best Ranger Competition pits 52 two-man Ranger teams from U.S. Army units across the globe against each other. The teams gather at Camp Rogers before dawn April 11, 2025, and compete in the “Prusik/Rappel”, the “Run-Swim-Run”, and “Weapons” events, ultimately culminating in the Malvesti Obstacle Course. Rangers will compete for over three days and two nights to earn the title of "Best Ranger." The competition will conclude with an awards ceremony April 14, 2025.
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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.