Private military contractors are companies that provide military-related services using trained civilians, often ex-military personnel. They offer highly trained personnel, equipment, and services, and many governments subcontract work to them. However, they lack the oversight and accountability of national militaries and have been accused of overstepping their boundaries.
A private military contractor is a company that offers military-related services, using a force of trained civilians, many of them ex-military. Private military contractors entered the public eye in the early 21st century when a number of companies collectively made up the second largest force in Iraq. Some people are concerned about private contractors, as many of these companies perform the same tasks as the military, but without the oversight that is inherent in most national militaries.
In essence, any private military contractor is a mercenary firm. These companies offer highly trained personnel along with equipment like weapons, armored vehicles, aircraft and other necessary tools of the trade. When contracted, these companies travel to a location such as an embassy, low-intensity conflict area, or private facility where bodyguards are needed.
Some contractors simply operate as glorified security companies, offering security with the extra meat of military training. Others are more like special forces, providing a range of services, some of which may be marginally legal. Many governments actually subcontract work to private military contractors and these companies can be seen in a number of places and situations in a quasi-official position.
Most private military companies were founded by ex-military men and women who wanted to offer high-quality defense and security services. In some cases, these companies are actually part of larger defense companies, while in other cases they are completely independent. A private military contractor tends to recruit heavily from Special Forces and talented ex-servicemen, ensuring that many personnel are highly trained before their employment even begins. To work for this type of contractor, someone must demonstrate strength, physical agility, quick decision-making skills, and a heightened sense of awareness and place. Many of these requirements mirror those of national militaries.
Unlike a government military organization, a private military contractor does not have a strictly enforced hierarchy that includes considerable supervision and oversight. These companies are also not accountable to an international court in the same way as a military force. They tend to offer more flexible services than the military, which is one reason military contractors have been seen in such abundance in Iraq. However, these companies have also been accused of overstepping their borders, and some nations have expressed unease at the continued lack of regulation of these organisations.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
