High-seas piracy a boon for Blackwater mercs

As the world's governments grapple with the growing threat of seeing valuable seafaring vessels shanghaied by increasingly bold pirates, one for-hire paramilitary force is gearing up to turn major profits off the crisis.

Blackwater Worldwide, a Moyock, North Carolina-based mercenary force, says its maritime forces are ready to throw its weight into the battle for the high seas. The group has retrofitted an ex-research vessel to carry over 30 "operators" on missions to protect other ships.