India has entered into a major agreement with the United States to procure 31 MQ-9B High Altitude Long Endurance UAVs, manufactured by General Atomics. This development follows discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden during the Quad Leaders’ Summit, which took place less than a month ago in Delaware.
Financial Scope and Agreement Highlights
The deal, worth Rs 32,000 crore, covers the acquisition of 31 Predator drones and includes plans to establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India. This facility will serve to enhance local drone upkeep capabilities. The total value of the agreement may increase to Rs 34,500 crore as additional components are finalized. The drones will play a key role in boosting India’s military surveillance and defense capabilities.
Approval and Drone Allocation
India’s Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) cleared the project last week. The drones will be distributed across the three branches of India’s armed forces, with 15 assigned to the Navy and the remaining 16 split evenly between the Army and Air Force. Although the deal had been under negotiation for years, the final obstacles were removed at a recent Defence Acquisition Council meeting, which needed to clear the contract before the American proposal expired on October 31.
Basing Locations for MQ-9B Drones
India will station these UAVs at four potential locations: INS Rajali in Chennai, Porbandar in Gujarat, as well as Sarsawa and Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh, ensuring a wide geographical coverage for surveillance and defense missions.
Advanced Features of the MQ-9B Predator
The MQ-9B drone is renowned for its stealth and operational efficiency. It can operate at a maximum altitude of 50,000 feet—higher than commercial aircraft—and fly at a top speed of 442 km/h. Its quiet operation allows it to fly as low as 250 meters above the ground, remaining virtually undetected unless visually spotted.
Long-Distance and Combat Capabilities
The drone has impressive endurance, capable of flying 2,000 miles without refueling and carrying up to 1,700 kg of cargo, including four missiles and 450 kg of bombs. It can remain airborne for up to 35 hours, making it ideal for extended reconnaissance and combat missions. Additionally, the MQ-9B is equipped with air-to-ground and air-to-air missile options, enhancing its versatility in military operations.
This deal marks a significant milestone in India’s defense modernization efforts, improving the country’s surveillance capabilities and strategic readiness for diverse mission profiles.
