India is expected to finalize a deal with the United States to procure 31 MQ-9B Predator armed drones under a government-to-government framework by March of next year. The US Congress is anticipated to approve the supplies in the coming weeks. Negotiations between American and Indian officials will be held once Washington responds to India’s Letter of Request for the acquisition of drones from US defense major General Atomics.
The objective behind procuring these drones is to enhance the surveillance capabilities of the Indian armed forces, particularly along the Line of Actual Control with China. While the exact cost of the drones is yet to be determined, it is estimated to be around USD 3 billion. New Delhi and Washington will form teams to finalize the deal, including cost and other details, with the aim of sealing the agreement by March 2023.
The agreement will be between the Indian government and US authorities, with the Pentagon conveying the Indian armed forces’ requirements to General Atomics. US Defense Secretary Austin mentioned that the announcement of the deal will be made at the appropriate time.
In addition to this drone deal, in June, India and the US reached an agreement for General Electric to collaborate with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited in producing jet engines for Indian military aircraft within India.
The Sea Guardian drones, which can perform various roles such as maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and over-the-horizon targeting, will be procured for the Navy, Air Force, and Army. The Navy will receive 15 Sea Guardian drones, while the Air Force and Army will each get eight Sky Guardian drones. These high-altitude long-endurance drones can remain airborne for over 35 hours and are equipped with four Hellfire missiles and can carry around 450 kg of bombs.
Furthermore, in 2020, the Indian Navy leased two MQ-9B Sea Guardian drones from General Atomics for surveillance in the Indian Ocean. The lease period has been extended beyond the initial one year.
(Note: This story has been published as received from a syndicated feed and has not been edited by NDTV staff, except for the headline.)
