Defense Contractor Worker Killed in Drone Attack in Iraq

Defense contractor worker killed in drone attack on Erbil airbase in Iraq, as colleagues report being pressured to remain in the country despite security concerns. A man employed by the US-based V2X company was killed in a night attack on his sleeping quarters, while another five workers were injured, including one in critical condition with severe burns.

The attack on March 24th targeted the base where a group of about 45 V2X employees have remained, even as five sources say they are being placed in harm's way and urged to stay in Iraq despite the significant security risks. The slain worker was from Kenya, while the injured are also from Kenya and India.

The incident highlights the dangerous conditions defense contractor employees often face in conflict zones like Iraq, where they are sometimes compelled to remain by their employers despite the threats. Sources say V2X has been applying pressure on the workers to stay on the base, even as security deteriorates and drone and rocket attacks become more frequent.

"We are just being used as cannon fodder," one of the workers told reporters, requesting anonymity out of fear of reprisal. "They don't care about our lives, they only care about the money and the contracts." The US government relies heavily on private defense contractors to provide services and security in war-torn regions, but advocates have long criticized the lack of oversight and accountability for the treatment of these workers.

V2X, formerly known as Vectrus, is one of the largest US defense contractors operating in Iraq, providing a range of services including logistics, infrastructure, and security. The company has not yet commented publicly on the recent attack or the allegations from its employees.

The incident is the latest in a string of attacks targeting US and coalition interests in Iraq, where tensions remain high following the 2020 killing of Iranian general Qassem Soleimani. Rocket and drone strikes against bases hosting American troops and contractors have become increasingly common, raising concerns about the safety of personnel in the region.

As the fallout from this tragic event continues, it serves as a sobering reminder of the risks faced by defense contractor employees in conflict zones, and the need for greater oversight and protections to ensure their safety and well-being. The Iraqi government and the US must work to address the security challenges and hold accountable any parties that are negligent in their duty of care for these workers.