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 Cpl. Nickson Schenk
AC-130J Ghostrider Flight to the South IV
Special Operations Command South
June 5, 2023 | 1:02
An AC-130 gunship from 73rd Special Operations Squadron flew a training mission May 30 from Hulbert Field, Fla. to international waters off the coast of Panama. The training evolution marked the first time in over ten years that an aircraft of this type has flown to the region. The flight demonstrates the U.S. capability to respond to crisis or conflict rapidly and effectively. The AC-130J gunship, also known as, “Ghostrider,” is the primary weapon of Air Force Special Operations Command. Its primary missions are close air support, air interdiction and armed reconnaissance. The J model is an upgraded version of the U and is equipped with side firing, trainable 30 mm and 105 mm guns as well as special operations precision guided munitions.
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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.