In a significant move, the United States has given the green light for India to purchase 31 MQ-9B armed drones, marking a milestone in bolstering India’s defense capabilities. The deal, estimated at USD 3.99 billion, aims to enhance India’s ability to address present and future threats through unmanned surveillance and reconnaissance missions, particularly in vital sea lanes.

The announcement of this extensive drone acquisition was made during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic State Visit to the United States in June 2023.

According to a statement from the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the US State Department has approved the potential Foreign Military Sale to India, including MQ-9B Remotely Piloted Aircraft and associated equipment. This sale aligns with US foreign policy and national security goals by strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations and reinforcing the security of a key defense ally.

The proposed sale will enable India to conduct unmanned surveillance and reconnaissance operations, enhancing its capability to address evolving threats effectively. The procurement of these long-endurance drones is particularly significant for augmenting surveillance along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.

Under the terms of the deal, India is set to receive 31 High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) UAVs, with the Navy acquiring 15 SeaGuardian drones and the Army and Air Force receiving eight SkyGuardian drones each. These drones will play a crucial role in enhancing India's military modernization efforts.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency emphasized that India's acquisition of these drones will not disrupt the regional military balance and will not compromise US defense readiness.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems is the principal contractor for this major defense deal.

Negotiations between American and Indian officials have been ongoing following New Delhi's formal request for the procurement of drones from General Atomics. This acquisition has been a topic of discussion in high-level meetings between US and Indian defense officials, including talks between US Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin and Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh.

The SeaGuardian drones, capable of performing various roles such as maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare, are critical assets being procured for all three branches of the Indian armed forces. These drones boast impressive capabilities, including over 35 hours of flight endurance and the ability to carry Hellfire missiles and bomb payloads.

This move signifies a significant step forward in India's defense capabilities, aligning with its commitment to modernize its armed forces and address emerging security challenges effectively.

INS Sandhayak Commissioned by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in Vizag