Generally a Stronghold develops around a mine and its associated living quarter although some later developments were not associated with mining. A hereditary Lord rules ruled each stronghold and is was protected and supported by the [[Hearthguard]]. The Hearthguard are were the elite of a Squat army and the servants to the Lord while also protecting the Lord when he goes went to war. Each Stronghold has had a group of ''Brotherhood'' or ''War-Brethren'' which forms formed the core of the Squat armed forces for the Stronghold. Every Squat has had an obligated 30-70 year service period although they may not be called upon to fight until they have had sired two sons and raised them to maturity. This helps helped protect the continuity of the race from the Stronghold's military activities. A Squat can could then retire from active duty with his honour and probably some wealth and take up a position of responsibility in his family's business.

The Brotherhood is was often also seen as a mercenary force. In times of peace warriors are were traded for resources to either fight for the [[Imperium]] or for other strongholds. Another member of the aristocracy is was the [[Warlord]], a close relative of the Lord who is was there to be placed in control of the Brotherhood in order to prevent Lords from wielding too much power and sending their troops into battles they should not be fighting. Other Lords will would send their Brotherhoods on expeditions which range from locating other ancient and lost strongholds to a campaign against an alien race or piracy. Some Brotherhoods have had totally turned to piracy and become known as [[Squat Reavers]]. When they return returned to their stronghold they distribute distributed the booty between the pirates and the Lord of the Stronghold.

Squats have had a requirement to provide forces for the [[Imperial Guard]] and this often takes took the form of a detachment of the Brotherhood. [[Space Marines]] however have a low tolerance for mutants and so Squats arenweren't posted to places they are were likely to meet the Adeptus Astartes.