15-06-2023 : In a significant move to strengthen its surveillance capabilities and enhance national security, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) of India’s defence ministry has given the go-ahead for the procurement of 30 MQ-9B Predator drones from the United States. The decision was made to bolster the surveillance apparatus of the Indian armed forces, with a particular focus on the frontier with China. This approval comes just days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled visit to Washington.
The anticipated mega procurement deal, estimated to be worth around $3 billion, is expected to be officially announced following discussions between Prime Minister Modi and US President Joe Biden at the White House next week. The clearance for the procurement proposal was granted during a meeting of the DAC, which was chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
The MQ-9B Predator drones, known as Sea Guardian drones, will be acquired for deployment across the three services of the Indian military. These hunter-killer drones are highly versatile and capable of performing various roles, including maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and over-the-horizon targeting, among others.
According to sources, the Indian Navy is likely to receive 14 drones, while the Indian Air Force and the Army are expected to be allocated eight drones each. These high-altitude long-endurance (HALE) drones have an impressive flight endurance of over 35 hours and can be equipped with four Hellfire missiles, along with the capability to carry approximately 450 kg of bombs.
The MQ-9B drone platform consists of two variants: the SkyGuardian and its maritime counterpart, the SeaGuardian. It is worth noting that in 2020, the Indian Navy had leased two MQ-9B Sea Guardian drones from General Atomics for a one-year period, primarily for surveillance purposes in the Indian Ocean. The lease period has been subsequently extended, highlighting the Indian Navy’s commitment to enhancing its surveillance mechanism in response to increasing Chinese activities, including frequent incursions by People’s Liberation Army (PLA) warships in the Indian Ocean Region.
The decision to procure MQ-9B Predator drones represents a significant step towards bolstering India’s defence capabilities and augmenting its surveillance infrastructure. These advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) will play a crucial role in monitoring sensitive border areas, particularly in relation to China. With their extended endurance and diverse operational capabilities, these drones will significantly enhance situational awareness and enable the armed forces to effectively respond to potential threats.
Furthermore, this procurement deal reflects the growing strategic partnership between India and the United States. It signifies the deepening defence cooperation and underscores the commitment of both nations to address shared security concerns. The acquisition of state-of-the-art defence technology, such as the MQ-9B Predator drones, highlights India’s determination to modernize its armed forces and safeguard its national interests.
The approval for the procurement of MQ-9B Predator drones marks a pivotal moment in India’s efforts to enhance its surveillance capabilities and bolster its defence preparedness. This development underscores the proactive approach of the Indian government in addressing security challenges and showcases the expanding cooperation between India and the United States in the field of defence technology. With these advanced drones in its arsenal, India will be better equipped to monitor and respond effectively to potential threats along its borders, thereby strengthening its national security posture.