While waiting for PS to go beta I have been reading a series of books by David Drake called the Hammer's Slammers series.
While not an exact parallel to PS it involves a troop of space mercenaries and their battle efforts for the highest bidder.
It is militarily realistic and quite graphic. The weapons and technology are explained in detail.
The latest is called "Paying the Piper."
Check your local bookstore or library or go by
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg...196864-2292740
DW