In a significant development, the Indian Defence Ministry granted approval on Thursday for the long-awaited procurement of 30 Predator armed drones from the United States, valued at nearly 3 billion dollar dollars. This decision comes just days before Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s scheduled State visit to Washington, where he is expected to engage in discussions with President Joe Biden, with a particular emphasis on access to critical and high-end technology from the US.
The Pioneer on June 15 had highlighted that in addition to the Predator drones deal, India and the US are likely to collaborate on the joint production of GE-414 fighter jet engines for the domestically manufactured Tejas light combat aircraft.
Both nations are expected to explore opportunities for the joint manufacturing of armoured personnel carriers, ammunition, and other advanced defence equipment. Several crucial defence-related announcements are anticipated after talks between Modi and Biden.
The approval for the armed drones deal was granted by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday. However, the final clearance for the deal rests with the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by the Prime Minister.
The Predator drones, also known as MQ-9B Sea Guardians, are manufactured by General Atomics in the United States and have proven to be highly effective in combatting terrorist groups during the American war on terror against the Taliban and ISIS. These high-altitude long-endurance drones are equipped with precision strike missiles capable of targeting enemy assets with remarkable accuracy. The acquired drones will be utilised for long-range surveillance along India’s borders and maritime regions.
Sources have revealed that the Indian Navy will receive 15 drones, while the remaining will be distributed to the Army and the Indian Air Force.
India currently operates two unarmed Predator drones, which were leased and have been instrumental in assisting the Navy with monitoring activities in the Indian Ocean region. The Predator, also referred to as the Reaper, features nine hardpoints capable of carrying various sensors, laser-guided bombs, and air-to-ground missiles.
With an endurance of over 27 hours and an operational ceiling of up to 50,000 feet, the drone can carry a payload of 3,850 pounds (1,746 kg), including 3,000 pounds (1,361 kg) of external stores.
It is also capable of accommodating multiple mission payloads.
Apart from India, the United States Air Force, Department of Homeland Security, NASA, Royal Air Force, Italian Air Force, French Air Force, and Spanish Air Force have all incorporated Predator drones into their respective defence forces.