At the Ready: DEFENDER-Europe 20

Not since the Cold War has such an event transpired.The US Army Europe,its Allies and Partners will stage the largest deployment of US-based forces to Europe in 25 years.According to USAEUR, beginning with preparations in February, the gargantuan exercise will increase strategic readiness and interoperability by exercising
the Pentagon's ability to rapidly deploy a large combat-credible force and equipment from the US to Europe; and alongside its Allies and Partners, quickly respond to a potential crisis.*
D-E 20 will run from April-May 2020, with the centerpiece being the deployment of 20,000 US Soldiers from the US to Europe.D-E 20 supports objectives​ defined by NATO to build readiness within the Alliance and deter potential adversaries.Besides US Forces, which will include Marines, Sailors and Airmen as well as Soldiers,about 17,000 Allied and Partner service members will participate in the skills test that spans 10 countries. Said USAEUR Commander LTGEN Christopher Cavoli:
This ability is critical in projecting force at a moment's notice.Our readiness reassures our Allies and deters potential adversaries.*
The scenario involves deploying a Divisional Headquarters;three Armored Brigade Combat Teams;a Fires Brigade; and a Sustainment Brigade.Some of the US-based units will deploy with their gear from the US; while others will deploy to Europe and draw from Europe-based Army Prepositioned Stock vehicles and equipment.Added LTGEN Cavoli:
Conducting tough, realistic training alongside our Allies and Partners in Europe enhances those professional relationships that build trust and confidence in each other and increases our overall interoperability, readiness and the ability to collectively deter potential threats.*
DEFENDER-Europe 20 and linked activities will build US EUCOM strategic readiness in support of the National Defense Strategy.*