I'm in the early stages of working on a paper (about 15 pages) on security cooperation at the strategic level. Right now I'm looking at the "ends" that I want to cover. In other words: What strategic effects can good security cooperation bring to the U.S. Here's what I have so far (terms may change):

1. Force augmentation
2. Enemy Resource Denial- think Brasidas fostering rebellions amongst Athens' colonies
3. Economy of Force denial- think Stillwell tying up Japanese troops in China
4. Strengthen partnered nations
5. Strengthen US/Partnered nation relationship
6. Assist allies without a major US commitment

I'd love some comments if anyone has any ideas or if I'm missing something since I know we have a lot of SC experts on here. I'm only in the rough draft of a vague outline stage and have six months before my deadline, so I'm not emotionally invested in any ideas yet.

Thanks.