Book- Mercenaries, PMCs, and the New Face of Warfare

In Mercenaries, PMCs, and the New Face of Warfare, Ethan Ryder delivers a timely, eye-opening examination of one of the most consequential shifts in modern conflict: the rise of privatized warfare.

From the legendary exploits of mercenaries in Africa to the tech-powered operations of companies like Wagner Group and Constellis, this book traces the evolution of mercenary forces into sophisticated private military companies (PMCs) now operating in over 50 countries.

Blending meticulous research with deep geopolitical insight,

Ryder unpacks how post-Cold War military downsizing, technological advances like AI and drones, and the demands of asymmetric warfare have fueled the explosive growth of PMCs—a global market projected to reach $500 billion by 2030.

The book explores the ethical, legal, and security implications of outsourcing war to profit-driven entities, tackling issues like accountability gaps, human rights violations, and the blurred line between state and non-state actors.

Through detailed case studies, historical context, and forward-looking analysis, Mercenaries, PMCs, and the New Face of Warfare reveals how the privatization of violence is reshaping the future of global security, sovereignty, and the conduct of war.

210 pages.