Washington: In a significant move aimed at bolstering India’s maritime security capabilities, the United States has greenlit the sale of General Atomics MQ-9B armed drones to India. The decision, announced by the State Department, underscores a deepening cooperation between the two nations in the realm of defense.
The sale, which includes 31 MQ-9B armed drones at an estimated cost of USD 3.99 billion, marks a milestone in the strategic partnership between the US and India. The announcement of the projected mega drone agreement coincided with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic state visit to the United States in June 2023.
Speaking at a daily news conference, State Department Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel emphasized the significance of the sale, stating, “This sale, we believe, will provide India with an enhanced maritime security and maritime domain awareness capability.” He further highlighted that the agreement offers India outright ownership of the aircraft, signaling a deepening of cooperation between the two nations.
The acquisition of MQ-9B armed drones is poised to bolster India’s maritime defense capabilities, providing the country with advanced surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. With maritime security becoming increasingly crucial in the Indo-Pacific region, the addition of these drones to India’s defense arsenal is expected to enhance its ability to safeguard its maritime borders and bolster domain awareness.
The MQ-9B armed drones are renowned for their versatility and effectiveness in conducting long-endurance missions, making them an invaluable asset for maritime surveillance and reconnaissance operations. The sale of these drones underscores the commitment of the United States to bolstering India’s defense capabilities and fostering strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
As India continues to strengthen its defense capabilities to address evolving security challenges, the acquisition of MQ-9B armed drones represents a significant step forward in enhancing the country’s maritime security posture. With this strategic acquisition, India is poised to further strengthen its role as a key security partner in the Indo-Pacific region, contributing to regional stability and security.
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