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. 1st Class Christy Sherman
Oregon National Guard conducts combined arms training in urban environment
National Guard Bureau
April 16, 2025 | 0:48
Oregon Army National Guard Soldiers with the 41st Infantry Brigade Combat Team participate in a combined arms training exercise at Yakima Training Center, Washington, April 3, 2025. The training brought together infantry and combat engineer units to maneuver through a mock urban environment. The exercise aimed to build unit cohesion, improve readiness, and enhance the Guard’s ability to operate in complex terrain. (U.S. Army video by Maj. W. Chris Clyne; edited by U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Christy Sherman)
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  • Saber Guardian

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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.