[solidsnack9000]

What's the difference between a private military company and a really heavily armed private security company?

If we can't clearly articulate this, we can't really ban these companies.

When guards have to accompany a VIP into an unstable environment they frequently employee armored vehicles, armed helicopters and specialists like designated marksmen.

[dingaling]

> and a really heavily armed private security company

Most Western countries prohibit that form of organisation, too. Close protection is provided by State bodies ( the police and Royal Marines in the UK, for example ).

So the question arises, why does the USA permit armed private companies at all?

[solidsnack9000]

Close protection for executives is provided by state bodies in the UK?

What about when the executives travel?