India-US Sign ₹32,000 Crore Predator Drone Deal

Aakhir Tak – In Shorts

• India and the US signed a ₹32,000 crore deal for 31 MQ-9B Predator drones.
• The deal will enhance the Indian armed forces’ surveillance capabilities, with the Navy getting 15 drones and the rest shared by the Army and Air Force.
• This agreement was finalized after discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden.

Aakhir Tak – In Depth

India and the US have signed a ₹32,000 crore deal for the procurement of 31 MQ-9B High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Predator drones. The deal was finalized following talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden during the recent Quad Leaders’ Summit. The agreement also includes setting up a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in India.

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) cleared the project, under which 15 drones will be allocated to the Indian Navy, with the rest divided equally between the Army and the Air Force. This deal significantly enhances the surveillance and strike capabilities of the Indian armed forces. The total value of the drones could increase to ₹34,500 crore. The drones will likely be based at locations like INS Rajali (Chennai), Porbandar (Gujarat), Sarsawa, and Gorakhpur (Uttar Pradesh).

Features of MQ-9B Drones

The MQ-9B Predator drone stands out for its silent operation, allowing it to fly as low as 250 meters without being detected. With a speed of 442 km/h, it can soar up to an altitude of 50,000 feet. Its ability to operate in any weather condition makes it perfect for extended missions. It can carry air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. The drone has a range of 2,000 miles without refueling and can carry up to 1,700 kg, including four missiles and 450 kg of bombs.

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