India finalises agreement to acquire 31 predator drones from US
The Indian Navy is likely to get 15 of these, while eight each will be allotted to the Army and the Air Force.
PTC News Desk: In a significant move to bolster its defense capabilities, India has signed an agreement with the United States to acquire 31 MQ-9B Predator drones. These advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are expected to provide a substantial boost to the Indian armed forces, enhancing their surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike capabilities.
Out of the 31 drones, the Indian Navy will receive 15 units of the 'SeaGuardian' variant, while the Indian Army and Air Force will each be allocated eight 'SkyGuardian' Predator drones. Sources indicate that the total cost of the deal is projected to be under $3.5 billion.
The acquisition of these drones follows approval by the Cabinet Committee on Security earlier this month. The contract was executed under a Foreign Military Sales agreement between the two governments, and the drones will be supplied by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an American defense manufacturer.
The MQ-9B Predator drones, a variant of the MQ-9 'Reaper,' are classified as high-altitude, long-endurance UAVs. These drones are capable of operating at altitudes exceeding 40,000 feet and can remain airborne for up to 40 hours. With an external payload capacity of 2,155 kg, the drones can carry a range of sensors and munitions.
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What sets the MQ-9B apart is its dual capability for surveillance and combat. It is equipped with precision strike missiles, allowing it to target enemy assets with high accuracy. The drones are also designed for automatic take-offs and landings and can be integrated safely into civilian airspace.
These features make the MQ-9B ideal for a variety of military operations, including land and maritime surveillance, anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, and electronic warfare. They are also well-suited for expeditionary missions, where specific objectives must be accomplished in response to a crisis.
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The addition of these advanced drones is expected to significantly enhance India's defense posture, especially in critical areas such as border surveillance, maritime security, and rapid response to emerging threats.