Allies

Allies are people, groups, or states that have joined in an alliance for mutual benefit or to achieve some common purpose, whether or not explicit agreement has been worked out between them. When the term is used in the context of war or armed struggle, such associations may also be called allied powers.

A formal military alliance is not required for being perceived as an ally—co-belligerence, fighting alongside someone, is enough. Allies become so not when concluding an alliance treaty but when struck by war.