India is poised to significantly enhance its military surveillance and strike capabilities with the acquisition of 31 MQ-9B High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) drones from the United States.
The first batch of these advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is expected to arrive in January 2029, marking a major step forward in the Indo-U.S. strategic defence partnership.
This landmark deal, valued at approximately $3.5 billion, was finalized under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. It stems from high-level discussions between the two nations, reflecting a shared commitment to bolstering security in the Indo-Pacific region.
The delivery of the drones is scheduled to be completed by September 2030, initiating a new era of military technology cooperation between India and the U.S.
The MQ-9B drones, comprising both Sea Guardian and Sky Guardian variants, are renowned for their exceptional capabilities. They can fly for up to 40 hours at altitudes reaching 50,000 feet, making them ideal for long-duration surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
Beyond monitoring, these UAVs possess strike capabilities, providing India with enhanced precision and effectiveness in safeguarding its vast maritime and border regions.
The Sea Guardian variant, designed for naval operations, will significantly boost the Indian Navy's maritime domain awareness, particularly in the strategically vital Indian Ocean.
Meanwhile, the Sky Guardian variant will be utilized by the Indian Army and Air Force to strengthen border surveillance along sensitive areas such as the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan.
This agreement goes beyond the acquisition of drones. It incorporates a Performance Based Logistics (PBL) contract with General Atomics, the manufacturer of the MQ-9B, for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services within India. This provision ensures long-term support for the drone fleet and aligns with India's 'Make in India' initiative by promoting the growth of its indigenous defence industry.
Furthermore, plans are in place for some of the drones to be assembled in India, facilitating technology transfer and the development of local manufacturing expertise.
This acquisition represents a significant investment in India's defence capabilities, providing a powerful tool for safeguarding its national interests and contributing to regional security in the Indo-Pacific.
