The stated purpose of an exchange officer programme is usually to help foster understanding of each other's operating methods.
This provides valuable feedback so that any issues that crop up in joint operations, such as those done under NATO, would not impede the achievement of mission objectives.
Exchange officers usually serve in similar roles to those that their career path would take if they were to remain in the armed forces of their home state.
The Australian Army also attaches one of its officers with the rank of captain to the Royal Military College of Malaysia.
As part of NATO interoperability of the UK/NL landing force the Netherlands Marine Corps (Korps Mariniers) regularly carry out an exchange program with their British Royal Marines counterparts, this acts to increase integration within this joint force whilst also continuing the close relationship between the two Corps.