>>73888
Okay Hitler, what if you and several competing McMercs were finding the most economical and tactically effective method of defending a region from invasion? Personally, I'd go for light infantry (of the volunteer militia variety), supported by a few attack choppers to deal with armor, and AA emplacements to counter enemy air support.
The militia would make up the bulk of the forces. Recruits would get paid a retainer fee upon completing basic training as an incentive to join up. They'd get a hefty sum for every "combat hour" they actually perform as well. Agreeing to the retainer and participating in training requires signing a contract obligating you to participate in "active duty" at any point the company requires you to, for a period of 8 years. During contract time, militiamen would have to participate in training maneuvers one weekend a month, much like the way the National Guard operates now. Militiamen will be given a stipend to purchase a service rifle, which may be anything they wish within certain regulations (would probably end up being any AR that takes 5.45x39 no, not 5.56). Militiamen are responsible for the cost if their rifle breaks or is not maintained properly. The crew of the gunships and the SAM emplacements will be decided on internally, as they require greater and more technical training than the infantry.