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This thesis investigates the construction and transformation of Military Assistance (MA) within a small state perspective and the Swedish special operations community discourse during the 2000´s. Addressing the discrepancy between doctrinal definitions and operational reality, the study employs a genealogical discourse analysis supported by military strategic theory. 

Through an analysis of doctrines, policy documents and interviews with senior leadership within the Swedish SOF community, the research traces MA´s evolution from tactical, residual task to a primary strategic instrument.  

The results demonstrate that MA has stabilized as a hegemonic practice for indirect influence, offering a small state critical access and “economy of force” with limited political exposure. However, the study identifies inherent tensions between political risk mitigation and the operational necessity of trust. Ultimately, MA is revealed as a catalyst for both external influence and internal capability development, validating its strategic utility for small states today.