The Indian Armed Forces are on the verge of a significant boost as the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) is expected to approve the purchase of 31 MQ-9B Predator drones today. The $3.1 billion deal, facilitated through a government-to-government arrangement with the U.S. defense contractor General Atomics, will be a key addition to India's defense capabilities, with no third-party involvement.
These drones, equipped with Hellfire missiles, GBU-39B precision-guided bombs, and rotary cannons, will be a game-changer, especially for the Indian Navy, which has spearheaded the acquisition. Out of the 31 drones, 16 will be allocated to the Navy, and the remaining split between the Indian Army and Air Force—each receiving eight.
While a portion of the drones will be assembled locally with 30% of components sourced from Indian industries, the integration of DRDO-developed missiles has been ruled out due to high costs and the complexity involved.
The Predator drones' high endurance, altitude, and advanced weaponry will give India a strategic edge in the region. For the Indian Navy, the drones will enhance maritime surveillance, extending from the Gulf of Aden to the Sunda Straits, and serve in anti-drug and anti-arms trafficking operations. They are also expected to deter Chinese spy ships frequently seen in the Indian Ocean. Meanwhile, the Army and Air Force will utilize the drones for high-value targets and critical infrastructure in extreme scenarios.
This acquisition marks a crucial step for India, especially as DRDO's indigenous drone project faces delays, and China continues to advance its own drone capabilities while supplying them to Pakistan.
Comentarios