Mercenaries have their place
In computer games like Jagged Allliance, but not in reality. Mercenaries have always caused more trouble than they’re worth, as their loyalty is only as deep as their paycheck, they tend not to be very willing to die for their employer and they have few moral qualms about earning something on the side. Africa has been particularly plagued with them in modern times, especially in the Congo.
They’re also present in growing numbers in Iraq and Afghanistan, where they form a handy and deniable tool for the US security forces. Steve Gilliard has been following their growth in a series of posts: