Paramilitary

Paramilitary—groups that are well-armed and well-disciplined with an organizational command structure, tactics, training, subculture and often also functions which are similar to that of a military, but are not a state-sanctioned armed force. Can include mercenary companies, militia groups and warring ninja clans. May have a combat-related livelihood, or a charter or manifesto of purpose, and may be deputized by state, police or military authorities or cooperate with them under agreement. Generally does not include ragtag street gangs, mafia, yakuza, career municipal police forces, samurai in the formal service of a daimyō, sanctioned peacekeepers, or small close-knit families like the Turtles.