Private Military Companies (contractors, firms) or PMCs are defined and profiled in this directory, as well as business enterprises rendering similar or related services such as Private Security Companies (PSCs), Risk Consultancy Firms, and Private Security Contractors. In addition, Corporations in adjacent or overlapping business sectors are also covered.

• Find also two developing areas: Military Hardware & Transport and Finance & Insurance. Besides a directory of top suppliers of equipment needed in reconstruction environments, the first area aims to list companies specializing in the transport of equipment and personnel to and from conflict zones. The second area focuses on private and public institutions that have developed financial products tailored for the private security industry, the humanitarian sector, and development projects.

• For reference purposes, military units of foreign or international constitution are also listed. Just like PMCs and PSCs, they are military/security organizations that supersede or overlap state defense and security provision.