Company (Military Unit)

A company is a military unit typically consisting of 100 to 200 soldiers, often organized into smaller groups like platoons or squads for tactical flexibility. Historically, the term “company” derives from the medieval practice of a leader gathering companions for combat, evolving by the 16th century into a standardized subunit within larger formations like battalions. In modern armies, a company is usually led by a captain and includes specialized roles such as infantry, artillery, or support personnel, depending on its mission. Its size and structure allow it to operate independently or as part of a coordinated effort in larger operations. The concept has roots in European military traditions, notably the British and French systems, and remains a fundamental building block of military organization worldwide, adapting to technological and strategic advancements over time.