Shadow Forces_Unveiling the TOP 10 Private Military Companies Across the Globe The top 10 private military companies (PMCs) globally are as follows: Academi (formerly known as Blackwater),Wagner,Aegis Defense Services Shadow Force: Private Security Contractors in Iraq​​ Isenberg dissects their responsibilities, the friction that exists between contractors and military What is the largest private army in the world? Does India have private military companies? What is Blackwater now called? In this article, the main focus will be on private military companies, which play a crucial role in the violent policies of colonialism Mercenary Group: A Look At 5 Big, Elite Private, Security Forces In The World · 1. Wagner group · 2. Olive group · 3. Academi · 4. G4S Security Deadly, Dirty and Dark: Inside the ugly world of private military contractors. Today, over a hundred bigger and smaller PMCs are operatingA private military company (PMC) or private military and security company (PMSC) is a private company providing armed combat or security services for

1. Shadow
Forces:
Unveiling the
TOP 10 Private
Military
Companies

2. Across the
Globe
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Shadow Forces: Unveiling the
TOP 10 Private Military
Companies Across the Globe
Written by Jaya Pathak
Definition of Private Military Companies
Private Military Companies (PMCs), also known as private security companies, private
military firms, or military contractors, are private companies that provide various military
and security services to governments, international organizations, and other clients.
These companies offer a range of services, from logistical support to armed combat
operations, and they operate independently of any government’s armed forces.
Key characteristics of private military
companies include:

4. ■ Services Provided: PMCs offer a wide array of services, including security and
protection of personnel and assets, training and advisory services, intelligence
gathering, logistics support, and operational support in conflict zones.
■ Contractors: Employees of PMCs are often referred to as “contractors” or
“mercenaries,” though the latter term can carry negative connotations and is
avoided by many legitimate PMCs.
■ Global Presence: Private military companies operate internationally and can be
found in various conflict zones and regions where security and military services
are in demand.
■ Diverse Clientele: PMCs may work for governments seeking support for military
or security operations, multinational corporations protecting assets in high-risk
areas, or humanitarian organizations seeking protection in dangerous
environments.
■ Controversy and Regulation: The use of PMCs has been a subject of controversy
and debate. Critics argue that relying on private companies for military and
security services may raise ethical concerns, transparency issues, and
accountability problems. Additionally, there have been allegations of human
rights abuses and violations by some PMC personnel.
■ Legal Status: The legal status and regulation of private military companies vary
across countries and regions. Some countries have specific laws and regulations
governing the operations of PMCs, while others may have limited or no
regulations.
It’s important to note that the private military industry is complex, and not all companies
operating in this sector are the same. Some PMCs have demonstrated professionalism
and adherence to international law and human rights standards, while others have faced
accusations of misconduct.
Weapons: Private military companies (PMCs) may use a variety of weapons and
equipment, depending on the nature of the services they provide and the contracts they
undertake. It’s important to note that the type of weaponry used by PMCs is often

5. subject to legal restrictions and regulations, both nationally and internationally. The
specific weapons used by PMCs can vary, but some common examples include:
■ Small Arms: PMCs often use standard military-grade small arms, including rifles,
pistols, and submachine guns. These firearms may be used by PMC personnel
for personal protection, security, or combat operations.
■ Light Machine Guns: Light machine guns are commonly used by PMCs for
providing suppressive fire and support during combat operations or security
details.
■ Heavy Machine Guns: Some PMCs may employ heavy machine guns for
defensive purposes or as mounted weapons on vehicles for convoy protection.
■ Sniper Rifles: PMCs may employ sniper rifles for precision shooting and
long-range engagements, especially in roles such as counterterrorism or
reconnaissance.
■ Shotguns: Shotguns can be used for close-quarters combat or crowd control
situations where less-lethal force is required.
■ Grenade Launchers: PMCs may use grenade launchers to provide additional
firepower or to deliver explosive projectiles.
■ Explosives and Demolition Equipment: PMCs may use explosives and demolition
equipment for tasks such as breaching obstacles, controlled demolitions, or
improvised explosive devices (IED) detection and disposal.
■ Armored Vehicles: Some PMCs may operate armored vehicles for security and
transport purposes, equipped with various weapon systems for self-defense.
■ Non-Lethal Weapons: In certain situations, PMCs may use non-lethal weapons
like pepper spray, tasers, or rubber bullets for crowd control or situations where
deadly force is not required.
However, the use of weapons by PMCs is often regulated by national laws, international
agreements, and the specific terms of their contracts. Additionally, PMCs are typically
expected to follow rules of engagement and adhere to international humanitarian law
when operating in conflict zones or providing security services.

6. Work of a private military contractor
The work of a private military contractor involves providing military and security-related
services under contract to governments, international organizations, corporations, or
other clients. The services offered by private military contractors can vary depending on
the specific contract and the client’s needs, but some common tasks and
responsibilities include:
■ Security Services: One of the primary roles of a private military contractor is to
provide armed security personnel to protect clients, facilities, assets, or
individuals. This can involve guarding high-profile individuals, embassies,
government buildings, or private properties in regions with high levels of conflict
or instability.
■ Consulting and Training: They offer consulting and training services to military
forces, law enforcement agencies, or other security-related organizations. They
may provideexpertise in areas such as counterterrorism, intelligence analysis,
logistics, and tactical training.
■ Logistics and Support: Private military contractors can provide logistical support
to military operations, including transportation, supply chain management, and
maintenance of equipment and infrastructure.
■ Intelligence and Surveillance: Private military contractors may conduct
intelligence gathering and surveillance operations, using advanced technologies
and techniques to collect and analyze information for their clients.
■ Armed Combat and Peacekeeping: In some cases, they are contracted to
participate in armed combat or peacekeeping operations. They can provide
combat-ready personnel and equipment to support military campaigns or
stabilize conflict zones.
■ Risk Assessment and Mitigation: PMCs often conduct risk assessments to
identify potential security threats and vulnerabilities for their clients. They then
develop strategies and plans to mitigate those risks.

7. Top 10 private military companies in 2023
The top 10 private military companies (PMCs)
globally are as follows:
Academi (formerly known as Blackwater):
■ A US-based PMC offering a wide range of security services, including training,
logistics, and combat operations. Academy provides tactics and weapons
training to military, government, and law enforcement agencies. The training
facility is one of the largest in the country and offers various courses, including
hand-to-hand combat, precision rifle marksmanship, tactical driving, and more.
■ Academi offers tactical training for maritime force protection units. They have
trained security forces for events like the 2004 Olympics, and they also train
naval sea commandos and provide security training to Afghanistan’s Ministry of
Interior.

8. ■ The company trains canines to work in patrol capacities, such as war dogs,
explosives, and drug detection, and other roles for military and law enforcement
duties.
■ Academy provides and maintains a “shoot house” system for training and
patented the BEAR multi-target training system. They received the first Cougar
Security Vehicle for use as a transport vehicle for U.S. Provisional Coalition
Authority officials in Baghdad.
Wagner
■ Wagner Group is a private military company (PMC) based in Russia. It has gained
international attention for its involvement in various conflicts and operations
around the world. Wagner Group is founded by Dmitry Utkin, a former Russian
military intelligence officer. The company is known to have close ties to the
Russian government.
■ Wagner Group has been involved in conflicts in several countries, including Syria,
Ukraine, Libya, Sudan, and the Central African Republic. The company provides
military and security services to its clients, often supporting Russian interests.
■ The company employs military contractors who are often former Russian military
personnel. These contractors are deployed to conflict zones to carry out various
tasks on behalf of the company’s clients.
■ Wagner Group’s operations have been surrounded by controversies, and the
company has been accused of human rights violations, involvement in war
crimes, and operating in violation of international law.
Aegis Defense Services
■ It is a UK-based PMC known for providing security and risk management services
to various clients worldwide.
■ Aegis Defense Services is a British private military and security company (PMC)
that was founded in 2002 by Tim Spicer, Mark Bullough, Jeffrey Day, and Dominic

9. Armstrong. It operates worldwide and has overseas offices in countries such as
Afghanistan, the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Libya, Somalia, and
Mozambique.
■ The company offers various defense and military services, including security
support for the United States Department of Defense in Iraq, involvement in
reconstruction programs, and protection services for the U.S. Embassy in Kabul,
Afghanistan.
■ In October 2015, Aegis Defense Services was acquired by Canadian security
company GardaWorld to expand its strategic expansion in Africa and the Middle
East. The acquisition was completed for a sum of $130,725,000 plus an
additional earnout amount.
■ The company has been associated with controversies, such as the release of
“trophy” videos showing private military contractors in Baghdad firing upon
civilian vehicles. Aegis investigated the incident, while the US Army concluded
that the contractors were operating within the rules for the use of force.
G4S
■ G4S is a global security company that provides a wide range of services to
commercial customers, governments, and institutions. It provides trained and
screened security officers for various security needs. The company offers access
control, CCTV, intruder alarms, fire detection, video analytics, and security and
building systems integration technology.
■ G4S provides key holding, mobile security patrol and response services, and
alarm receiving and monitoring facilities. This includes integrated facilities
services for entire sites or estates for commercial customers and governments.
■ G4S offers risk management and consultancy services, including mine detection
and clearance services. The company provides electronic tagging and monitoring
services for offenders at home or in the community. G4S supports front-line
policing by providing custody suite services and forensic medical services.
■ G4S has been contracted to secure the perimeter of Homey Airport, commonly
known as Area 51, the secret United States Air Force base in Nevada. G4S also
emphasizes corporate social responsibility and has become a signatory to the
UN Global Compact, aiming to promote socially responsible business behavior.
The company is a founder signatory of the International Code of Conduct for

10. Private Security Service Providers (ICoC), a multi-stakeholder initiative that seeks
to promote responsible and accountable private security practices.
Control Risks
■ Control Risks Group (CRG) is a private security company based in London,
founded in 1975 as a subsidiary of the Hogg Robinson insurance and travel
group. The company started by providing advice to clients involved in kidnap
situations and later expanded its services to include various areas of risk
management and security consultancy. CRG was founded by three SAS officers:
Maj. David Walker, Arish Turle, and Simon Adams-Dale.
■ Over the years, CRG became an independent employee majority-owned company,
with its employees owning 82% of the company. It has grown internationally and
has more than 600 employees with 18 offices worldwide. The company’s four
main operating areas are political and security risk analysis, confidential
investigations, security consultancy, and crisis response.
■ CRG’s clients primarily consist of large multinational corporations, and they have
a significant presence in the energy sector, providing services in various
countries with challenging security environments. These services include
political and security risk assessments, site security management for dangerous
projects, and kidnap and evacuation consultancy.
■ The company has provided services for various clients, including the UK
government, Bechtel, and Halliburton in Iraq. They have also developed a travel
product called CRTravelTracker to assist companies in locating and advising their
employees during their travels worldwide.
■ CRG has a history of working with the UK government and other private sector
clients in high-risk regions, offering services such as armed guards for staff and
risk assessments. They are members of industry associations, including the
British Association of Private Security Companies and the Private Security
Company Association of Iraq.
■ The board of directors and officers of CRG includes individuals with experience
and expertise in various fields, including security, investigations, finance, and
information services.

11. GardaWorld
■ GardaWorld Corporation is a Canadian private security firm based in Montreal,
Quebec. It was established in 1995 by Stéphan Crétier as Trans-Québec Security
Inc. with an initial investment of $25,000. The company operates globally and
offers physical security guard services and armored car services.
■ Throughout its history, GardaWorld has undergone acquisitions and financial
challenges. In 2015, the company acquired Aegis Defense Services to expand its
operations in Africa and the Middle East. Rhône acquiredGardaWorld in 2017
alongside Crétier and some members of management from Apax Partners in a
deal valued at $2.2 billion.
■ In November 2019, GardaWorldacquired Drum Cusaac, a UK-based specialist in
travel risk management. However, the company has also faced scrutiny and
incidents. In 2020, there were investigations into armored truck crashes and
deaths related to Garda World’s operations. An article by the Tampa Bay Times
found that the company’s trucks were involved in dangerous behavior and
frequent crashes that resulted in fatalities and injuries.
■ During the Fall of Kabul in 2021, there were reports about the situation involving
the guards employed by GardaWorld at the UK and US embassies in Kabul. The
guards employed by GardaWorld at the UK embassy were not offered asylum in
the UK, while the guards at the US embassy were evacuated by the US.
DynCorp International
■ DynCorp, formally known as DynCorp International, was an American private
military contractor that provided a wide range of services to the U.S. federal
government. The company started as an aviation company and later expanded
its operations to include flight operations support, training, mentoring,
international development, intelligence training and support, security, and
operations and maintenance of land vehicles.
■ DynCorp received over 96% of its annual revenue, which amounted to more than
$3 billion, from contracts with the U.S. federal government. The company’s
services were utilized in various theaters, including Bolivia, Bosnia, Somalia,

12. Angola, Haiti, Colombia, Kosovo, and Kuwait. It played a significant role in
providing services to the U.S. military and government in Iraq and Afghanistan,
such as training the police forces and providing security for Afghan president
Hamid Karzai’s presidential guard.
■ Over the years, DynCorp underwent several changes in ownership and corporate
structure. In 2020, the company was acquired by Amentum, a defense support
services conglomerate based in Germantown, Maryland. Following the
acquisition, the DynCorp name was discontinued, and its employees and services
were transferred to Amentum.
■ DynCorp was not without controversies during its operations. It faced allegations
of involvement in sex trafficking in Bosnia and Herzegovina and was accused of
wasteful spending and mismanagement in contracts with the U.S. government in
Iraq.
Triple Canopy
■ Triple Canopy, Inc. is an American private security company that specializes in
providing integrated security, mission support, and risk management services to
various clients, including corporate, government, and nonprofit organizations. It
was founded in May 2003 by United States Army Special Forces veterans,
including former Delta Force operators. The company’s headquarters is in
Reston, Virginia.
■ Triple Canopy’s primary focus is on countering international terrorism, and it has
been involved in providing security services on a contract basis, especially to
clandestine government agencies. The firm employs a well-trained and
experienced workforce, consisting of personnel with backgrounds in military
special operations and law enforcement.
■ The company’s name, “Triple Canopy,” was chosen to symbolize the layered
canopies found in jungles where some of the founding members received their
training. It also references the distinction among U.S. Army personnel wearing
the Airborne, Ranger, and Special Forces tabs when assigned to Special Forces
units.
■ Triple Canopy has been known for its involvement in security operations in Iraq,
particularly guarding Coalition Provisional Authority headquarters throughout the

13. country. It has also assisted in humanitarian operations, such as providing aid
and supplies to Haiti following a devastating earthquake in 2010.
■ The company has experienced casualties due to its operations in war zones and
dangerous areas. It occasionally faces legal challenges, including wrongful
termination suits filed by former contractors. Additionally, Triple Canopy has been
involved in efforts to establish an international code of conduct for private
security service providers, aiming for transparency, oversight, and accountability
in the industry.
■ In 2014, Triple Canopy merged with rival security contracting firm Academi
(formerly Blackwater) to form Constellis Group, with the CEO of Academi
becoming the CEO of the newly formed entity.
Private military companies in USA 2023
Triple Canopy: Triple Canopy, Inc. is an American private security company that
specializes in providing integrated security, mission support, and risk management
services to various clients, including corporate, government, and nonprofit
organizations. It was founded in May 2003 by United States Army Special Forces
veterans, including former Delta Force operators. The company’s headquarters is in
Reston, Virginia.
Triple Canopy’s primary focus is on countering international terrorism, and it has been
involved in providing security services on a contract basis, especially to clandestine
government agencies. The firm employs a well-trained and experienced workforce,
consisting of personnel with backgrounds in military special operations and law
enforcement.

14. DynCorp International: DynCorp, formally known as DynCorp International, was an
American private military contractor that provided a wide range of services to the U.S.
federal government. The company started as an aviation company and later expanded
its operations to include flight operations support, training, mentoring, international
development, intelligence training and support, security, and operations and
maintenance of land vehicles.
DynCorp received over 96% of its annual revenue, which amounted to more than $3
billion, from contracts with the U.S. federal government. The company’s services were
utilized in various theaters, including Bolivia, Bosnia, Somalia, Angola, Haiti, Colombia,
Kosovo, and Kuwait. It played a significant role in providing services to the U.S. military
and government in Iraq and Afghanistan, such as training the police forces and
providing security for Afghan President Hamid Karzai’s presidential guard.
Over the years, DynCorp underwent several changes in ownership and corporate
structure. In 2020, the company was acquired by Amentum, a defense support services
conglomerate based in Germantown, Maryland. Following the acquisition, the DynCorp
name was discontinued, and its employees and services were transferred to Amentum.
Academi (formerly known as Blackwater): A US-based PMC offering a wide range of
security services, including training, logistics, and combat operations. Academy
provides tactics and weapons training to military, government, and law enforcement
agencies. The training facility is one of the largest in the country and offers various
courses, including hand-to-hand combat, precision rifle marksmanship, tactical driving,
and more.

15. Academi offers tactical training for maritime force protection units. They have trained
security forces for events like the 2004 Olympics, and they also train naval sea
commandos and provide security training to Afghanistan’s Ministry of Interior.
The company trains canines to work in patrol capacities, such as war dogs, explosives
and drug detection, and other roles for military and law enforcement duties.
10. Private military companies in Russia 2023
Wagner: Wagner Group is a private military company (PMC) based in Russia. It has
gained international attention for its involvement in various conflicts and operations
around the world. Wagner Group is founded by Dmitry Utkin, a former Russian military
intelligence officer. The company is known to have close ties to the Russian
government.
Wagner Group has been involved in conflicts in several countries, including Syria,
Ukraine, Libya, Sudan, and the Central African Republic. The company provides military
and security services to its clients, often supporting Russian interests.
The company employs military contractors who are often former Russian military
personnel. These contractors are deployed to conflict zones to carry out various tasks
on behalf of the company’s clients.

16. Wagner Group’s operations have been surrounded by controversies, and the company
has been accused of human rights violations, involvement in war crimes, and operating
in violation of international law.
Private military company training
The PMC training program covers various aspects of security and defense, including
firearms training, threat assessment and risk analysis, convoy operations, security in
high-risk areas, use of force rules, shooting on the move, and the role and
responsibilities of the PSD (Protective Security Detail) team. The training is designed to
be realistic, with participants getting familiarized with different weapons and equipment
essential for operating in high-risk countries.
Contractor’s salary in private military
■ Average Salary: The average Private Military Contractor in the US makes $90,057
per year. The range of salaries for these contractors varies widely, with a low of
$17,412 and a high of $462,765. The median salary falls at $83,487.
■ Top-Paying Location: Private Military Contractors earn the most in San
Francisco, CA, with an average salary of $135,685, which is 51% higher than the
national average.
■ Annual Bonuses: It is mentioned that some companies give annual bonuses.
However, the specific amount or percentage of the bonuses is not disclosed in
the information provided.
■ Tax Implications: Private Military Contractors in the US can expect an estimated
average federal tax rate of 24%. After taxes, the take-home pay would be
approximately $74,154 per year, with each paycheck being around $3,090
(assuming a bi-monthly pay period). This estimation is based on 2018 federal

17. and state tax tables and is intended to be an estimate, not formal financial or tax
advice.
■ Quality of Life: With a take-home pay of about $6,180 per month and considering
the median 2-bedroom apartment rental price of $2,506 per month, a Private
Military Contractor would spend around 40.55% of their monthly salary on rent.
Private military contractor course in 2023
Here are some common topics that private military company courses may cover:
■ Security and Defense Training: This training focuses on various aspects of
security, including threat assessment, risk management, and defensive tactics.
■ Firearms and Weapons Training: Courses may include precision rifle
marksmanship, tactical shooting, and firearms handling.
■ Close Protection and VIP Security: Training in close protection involves
safeguarding individuals, often high-profile clients, from potential threats.
■ Combat Operations: Some courses may cover combat techniques, mission
planning, and battlefield strategies.
■ Tactical Driving: Training in defensive and offensive driving techniques for
operating in high-risk environments.
■ Medical Training: Basic first aid, trauma care, and medical skills relevant to
combat situations may be included.
To find suitable private military company courses, consider researching private security
training academies, specialized defense training centers, or institutions that offer
courses in security and military-related fields. Ensure that the training providers are
reputable and accredited.

18. Before enrolling in any course, thoroughly review the curriculum, instructor
qualifications, and any reviews or feedback from previous students. Additionally, keep in
mind that the private military contractor industry operates under strict regulations and
compliance with international laws, so it’s essential to understand the legal and ethical
aspects of this profession.
FAQs
01. When does a private company become public?
■ A private company becomes public through an Initial Public Offering (IPO).
During this process, the company offers shares to the public, transitioning from
private ownership to being publicly traded on a stock exchange. The company
prepares financial statements, hires investment banks as underwriters, and files
with regulatory authorities. Through a roadshow, it presents its business to
potential investors, determining the offering price based on demand. Once the
IPO is complete, the company’s shares are listed and traded on the stock
exchange, subjecting it to public reporting and regulatory obligations while
gaining access to public capital markets.
2. Most powerful PMC in 2023 ?
■ Academy (Blackwater)
3. How many PMCs are there?
■ Over 150 globally.
4. How much does Private Military Contractor make ?
■ $90,057 per year in the USA.
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