For years, war was associated almost exclusively with regular armies and special forces. Today, the landscape is far more grey. Private military companies and contractors are part of modern conflicts almost everywhere in the world. 
And yet, many people still understand PMCs only through video games or movies. 

The popular image usually shows heavily armed mercenaries operating without control. Part of that vision comes from games like Call of Duty. Reality is usually far less spectacular and much more uncomfortable. 
Modern PMCs mainly work in convoy protection, security, training, escort, or logistical support. Iraq and Afghanistan massively accelerated the growth of these companies, and current conflicts have shown that their presence continues to increase. 

The problem is that the line between support and direct combat participation often becomes extremely blurred. 
Visually, PMCs have also had a huge influence on modern airsoft. Low-profile configurations, mixes of civilian clothing and tactical gear, or less uniform setups come directly from the aesthetic of the modern contractor. 

And that is precisely where another problem appears: the internet has romanticised that image until it became just another tactical fantasy. 
Because behind the PMC concept there is not only aggressive aesthetics and customised rifles. There are also long conflicts, political interests, and areas where the rules are rarely clear. 
Modern warfare no longer always has a clearly defined flag. 
And that is precisely where one of the most uncomfortable aspects of modern conflict begins.