WIESBADEN, Germany — U.S. Army Europe and NATO allies will participate in Exercise Arcane Thunder 26, a multi-domain training event designed to strengthen interoperability and demonstrate the integration of advanced capabilities across the European theater.

A hunter-killer team from the unmanned aerial system platoon, 1st Squadron, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, prepare to conduct a drone reconnaissance mission to target enemy vehicles with the Javelin missile system at the Joint Multinational Readiness Center Hohenfels, Germany Sept. 7 2025. Soldiers within the unit developed small purpose-built attritable systems to use against simulated enemy forces at Saber Junction 25. This exercise ensures that the 2nd Cavalry Regiment and allied forces are prepared to act decisively in response to emerging threats, crises, or opportunities.

The exercise will take place from April 6 to April 29, 2026, across locations in Germany, Poland, and the United States.

Arcane Thunder 26 validates the employment of Multi-Domain Company Teams, specialized formations integrating cyber, space, electronic warfare and conventional capabilities to create synchronized effects across domains.

"Arcane Thunder 26 marks a pivotal moment in our modernization efforts. We are qualifying Multi-Domain Company Teams to operate in today's complex security environment and across all domains.” Says U.S. Army Col. Jeffery Pickler, commander, 2nd Multi-Domain Task Force. “Simultaneously, we are experimenting with cutting-edge technology and techniques, which will inform the force for years to come. Arcane Thunder 26 makes our Soldiers more lethal and ensures we and our Allies maintain a decisive advantage.”

A U.S. soldier with the 709th Military Police Battalion, 18th MP Brigade, engages with notional Opposing Forces, Sept. 10, 2025, during exercise Saber Junction 25, at Joint Multinational Readiness Center's Hohenfels Training Area, Germany. Saber Junction 25 brings together more than 7,000 participants and 1,000 vehicles from 15 nations, with 2nd Cavalry Regiment serving as the primary training audience. The exercise is designed to ensure that U.S., Allied, and partner forces remain ready to act decisively in response to emerging threats, crises, or opportunities.

The exercise also supports the broader Sword 26 series, reinforcing NATO regional defense plans and improving the Alliance’s ability to deter aggression and defend the Euro-Atlantic region.

Arcane Thunder 26 highlights the continued transformation of the U.S. Army as it operationalizes multi-domain capabilities and strengthens cooperation with allies and partners.