The private military firms: historical evolution and industry analysis

Abstract

Soldiers for hire are not a new phenomenon of the twenty-first century. They are as old as war itself. However, in the present day these modern day soldiers for hire are part of well-organized and competently run Private Military Companies (PMC). The private military industry may be one of the most important, but little understood developments in security studies to have taken place over the last decade. This new industry, where firms not only supply the goods of warfare, but also fulfill many of the professional functions, is not only significant to the defense community, but has wider ramifications for global policies and warfare. This study attempts to clarify and analyze the historical evolution of the private military industry, comparing different private military firms and their future impacts on military operations.