looks like the idea comes up all the time...

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Letter_of_marque#21st-century_...

  The United States has not legally commissioned any privateers since 1815

They Spoke English, Wore U.S. Flags and Attacked Fishermen. Who Were They? - https://www.nytimes.com/2026/08/12/world/americas/ecuador-fi...

US claims it is not responsible for strikes on Ecuadorian fishing boats – so who is? - https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jun/13/ecuador-fishin...

This story has been getting increased attention and commentators have raised questions about Erik Prince, other PMC's and Letters of Marque.