11.   It runs the gamut from joint training and exercises to Western help in drafting defense budgets, force levels, proper defense plans and arms procurement practices.

12.   NATO officials said Friday that no phased withdrawal was in the works, and that the lower force level did not limit effectiveness.

13.   Some allies have allowed force levels to drop, giving commanders several thousand fewer troops.

14.   The Bush administration is unlikely to reduce the U.S. force level unless it is part of an overall NATO plan, the official said.

15.   The conclusion is that force levels in Kosovo are just about right.

16.   In both Europe and Asia, force levels are viewed by nervous US allies as an important measure of US commitment to the security of those regions.

17.   But, he said, Washington would study any Japanese government proposal aimed at adjusting the force levels.

18.   The proposed budget would trim overall military spending, clip force levels slightly and extend for at least another year a long slide in new weapons orders.

19.   The US announced its intentions Saturday to maintain its current force levels.

20.   NATO has suggested that force levels in seven areas of eastern and central Europe be maintained at current levels, and proposed further reductions in stocks of conventional weapons.