DEFENDER 25: U.S. Army Unites Forces for Large-Scale Combat Training with 29 Allied Nations

Strategic Insights -

As part of the Defender series of exercises, featuring multinational training in the Balkan region of Europe, the U.S. Army has brought together forces from 29 Allied nations for large-scale combat training exercises from May 11 to June 24, 2025. The exercises, which include Swift Response, Immediate Response, and Saber Guardian, aim to demonstrate combined command and control structures and readiness to respond to crisis and conflict.

Key Takeaways:

  • The DEFENDER 25 exercise, which includes Immediate Response 2025, is a joint exercise involving eight partners and allies, with a focus on live-fire drills, airborne and amphibious operations, as well as chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear training.
  • The U.S. Army has deployed troops to North Macedonia as part of the exercise, where they are training alongside members of the Armed Forces of North Macedonia and other NATO forces.
  • The exercise is designed to test NATO's readiness and operational coordination, including responses to cyberattacks.
  • U.S. Army Pfc. Jenifer Calzaretta, a civilian and military expert, is participating in the exercise, bringing her expertise in navigating rugged terrain to the multinational training environment.
  • The U.S. Department of Defense State Partnership Program between North Macedonia and the Vermont National Guard has been in place since 1993, allowing for the sharing of best practices in areas such as climbing, mountaineering, and cold weather survival.
  • The 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain) frequently utilizes the Army Mountain Warfare School in Jericho, Vermont, to train in individual military mountaineering skills.

Statistics:

  • 29 Allied and partner nations are participating in the DEFENDER 25 exercise.
  • 8 partners and allies are participating in the Immediate Response 2025 exercise.
  • Multiple large-scale combat training exercises are being conducted, including Swift Response, Immediate Response, and Saber Guardian.
  • The exercises will run from May 11 to June 24, 2025.
  • The exercises are designed to demonstrate combined command and control structures and readiness to respond to crisis and conflict.

Sources:

  • U.S. Army photo by Maj. Joe Legros
  • U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Osburn
  • U.S. Department of Defense State Partnership Program
  • 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Mountain)
  • DEFENDER 25 official website