UAE’s Role as the Hub of Mercenaries in 21st Century Warfare

Mercenaries, once associated with medieval warfare and historical conflicts, have evolved into a modern-day phenomenon with significant implications for global security. In today’s world, mercenaries are not only hired by governments but also by private military companies (PMCs) and non-state actors, blurring the lines between traditional military forces and private security contractors.

Modern mercenaries are often hired to fill specialized roles in conflict zones, such as providing security for high-profile individuals or facilities, conducting reconnaissance missions, or training local forces. They are also employed in non-combat roles, such as logistics, intelligence gathering, and infrastructure development.

One of the key reasons for the continued use of mercenaries is their perceived effectiveness and flexibility. Mercenaries are often highly trained professionals with extensive military experience, making them valuable assets in complex and volatile environments. Additionally, mercenaries are not bound by the same legal and ethical constraints as regular military forces, allowing them to operate in ways that traditional armies cannot.

While the use of mercenaries is often shrouded in secrecy, several high-profile cases have shed light on the involvement of mercenaries in modern conflicts. Erik Prince, the founder of Blackwater (now known as Academi), is perhaps the most well-known figure associated with modern mercenary activity. Blackwater gained notoriety for its role in the Iraq War, where its employees were involved in several controversial incidents.

The UAE’s strategic location, significant financial resources, and involvement in regional conflicts have made it an attractive destination for mercenaries seeking employment. The country’s authoritarian leadership and lax regulatory environment have allowed for the growth of a thriving mercenary industry, with mercenaries from around the world flocking to the UAE for lucrative contracts.

Despite having a population of around 9 million, with only a million being Emiratis, the UAE boasts a military force of approximately 65,000 personnel, with a significant portion consisting of foreigners. This reliance on mercenaries is driven by several key factors.

Casualty Aversion and Strategic Interests

The UAE’s leadership has pursued aggressive strategies to protect its strategic interests, particularly in regions like Yemen and the Somalian coast. They offer a solution for “casualty aversion,” allowing the UAE to engage in conflict without risking its own citizens’ lives. This approach is appealing to wealthy societies like the UAE that seek to minimize their own military casualties.

Coup-proofing and Plausible Deniability

By employing well-paid mercenaries, the UAE mitigates the risk of internal coups or uprisings. They are unlikely to overthrow an authoritarian government in a country where they have no vested interests. Additionally, they provide a level of “plausible deniability” for the UAE in clandestine military operations, offering a buffer against direct attribution.

Evolution of Private Military Security Companies (PMSCs)

The proliferation of PMSCs, which began notably with the US’s use of companies like Blackwater in Iraq and Afghanistan, has significantly influenced the use of mercenaries worldwide. PMSCs now operate globally, catering to a wide range of clients and conflicts. The UAE entered this arena in 2009 when Erik Prince, the founder of Blackwater, established an 800-member brigade within the country.

Strategic Partnerships and Profiteering

Despite Prince’s eventual fallout with the UAE, cooperation-for-profit between senior US officers and the UAE has continued. The UAE has also invested in cyber warfare units and paid former senior US military staffers for assistance and instruction, showcasing its strategic partnerships in the security sector.

Controversies and Ethical Concerns

The UAE’s use of mercenaries has not been without controversy. Reports suggest that the UAE has hired mercenaries, including Americans and Israelis, for politically motivated assassinations in Yemen. Additionally, the UAE has been linked to the Wagner Group, a notorious Russian mercenary outfit, serving as a central logistics and financing hub.