What is a joint defence agreement?

A joint defence agreement is a formal agreement between two or more countries that establishes a mutual framework for military cooperation and defence. Such an agreement involves the pooling of resources and capabilities of the respective armed forces to enhance their collective military strength and improve their capacity to deter potential aggressors.

Key features of a joint defence agreement include the establishment of a shared command structure, the integration of military capabilities and systems, and joint defence planning and training. The agreement may also include provisions for joint military exercises, deployment of military personnel, sharing of intelligence and information, and joint procurement of weapons systems and equipment.

Joint defence agreements are often established between countries with shared security interests, strategic partnerships or historical ties. They can provide a basis for increased regional stability and a framework for effective response to shared security threats.

Examples of joint defence agreements include NATO, the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, and the Gulf Cooperation Council defence agreement.