Blackwater (Academi)

Blackwater, now known as Academi, is a private security company that provides military-style training, security services, and logistics support often for governments, corporations, and NGOs. Founded in 1997, it gained prominence for its roles in security contracting and training personnel in conflict zones, especially during the Iraq War. The company employs former military and law enforcement personnel to offer protection and risk management in dangerous environments. Its work is controversial due to incidents involving the use of force, raising questions about the ethics and regulation of private military contractors operating alongside government forces.