security regime
a. principles, rules and norms that permit nations to be restrained in their behavior in the belief that others will reciprocate.
b. competitive arms acquisitions and contingency planning usually continue within the regime, although specific regimes might be created to limit the spread of weapons and military capabilities.
c. the absence of war within the community may be due to short-term factors and considerations, such as the economic and political weakness of actors otherwise likely to use force in pursuit of national aims or to the existence of a balance of power or mutual deterrence situation. In either case, the interests of the actors in peace are not fundamental, unambiguous and long-term in nature

Security community
a. strict and observed norms concerning non-use of force, with long-term prospects for war-avoidance.
b. no competitive arms acquisitions and war-planning within the grouping.
c. institutions and processes (formal and informal) for the pacific-settlement of disputes.
d. significant functional interdependence, integration and co-operation.

Defence community
a. a shared perception of external threats by members of the community.
b. reciprocal obligations of assistance during military contingencies.
c. significant military inter-operability and integration.