India seeks US deal for 31 MQ-9B drones to combat piracy
- India aims to acquire 31 MQ-9B Predator drones to enhance its defense capabilities.
- The deal includes advanced weaponry and a commitment to local manufacturing of components.
- The agreement is expected to strengthen India's ability to combat piracy and border threats.
India is looking to finalize a significant defense deal during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to the United States for the Quad Leaders’ Summit on September 21. The proposed agreement involves the acquisition of 31 MQ-9B Predator drones, which are intended to enhance India's capabilities in combating piracy and addressing security threats along its borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh. The deal includes 15 Sea Guardian drones for the Indian Navy and 16 Sky Guardian drones for the Army and Air Force, all equipped with advanced weaponry and surveillance systems. The drones are designed to operate at altitudes exceeding 40,000 feet and can fly for nearly 40 hours, making them suitable for long-range missions. The procurement plan is estimated to cost around Rs 33,500 crore and is currently awaiting approval from the Prime Minister-led cabinet committee on security. The deal also emphasizes the establishment of a maintenance and repair facility in India, which aims to bolster local defense capabilities. In addition to the drones, the agreement will ensure that 30% of the components are sourced from Indian companies, promoting domestic manufacturing. General Atomics, the drone manufacturer, is expected to provide technical expertise to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and other local entities to support the development of similar drones in India. This strategic move is seen as a game-changer for India's defense posture, enhancing its surveillance and precision targeting capabilities while fostering self-reliance in defense manufacturing.