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 Airman 1st Class Sierra Casteel, Staff Sgt. Charles Welty
U.S., British, French armed forces strengthen ties during flag football
48th Fighter Wing
May 22, 2025 | 1:33
U.S., British and French service members compete in a flag football tournament, hosted by the New York Jets, at RAF Lakenheath, England, May 16, 2025. The third annual tournament brought together armed forces from three different countries, strengthening bonds with allied nations through friendly competition and cultural exchange. (U.S. Air Force video by Airman 1st Class Sierra Casteel & Staff Sgt. Charles Welty)
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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.