The conduct of multinational military operations has become a hallmark of strategic activity since the 1990s but also draws on strong antecedents through the alliance systems of the Cold War and the previous conflicts of the modern industrial age. The concept of military interoperability has thus become a common term pertaining to multinational military operations, defence relationships, and force development. However, while states work to develop their ability to operate together each will realise different roles, forms and challenges in doing so. Much of the research and analysis into military interoperability has been conducted from the perspective of the larger or framework partners and focused on practical aspects of military cooperation. The characteristics and attributes of small states mean that they face different challenges in working in combined forces and there is scope to further understand the implications or considerations of these activities for the smaller or less capable partners in these relationships.

In this presentation Vernon Bennett will explore the concept of military interoperability with respect to small states in international relations. The study identifies what military interoperability is, explains what it entails, and examines what it means for those states. It is intended that this study provides a theoretical framework which can then be used to support further research into the military relationships of small states, and the role and agency of small states within international relations more generally.

Dr Vernon Bennett is a retired military officer. He completed his PhD (‘Military force structures in small states: providing for relevant and credible military capability’) at Victoria University of Wellington. He has published work developing the themes in his doctoral thesis, with a particular focus on small states and military theory.