India has signed a contract with the United States to procure 31 Weaponized MQ-9B drones (Predator/Sea Guardian). This acquisition, valued at approximately $4 billion, earmarks a massive decision in boosting India’s Surveillance and Unmanned Strike Capabilities across its defense segments.

On October 9, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) had approved the purchase of 31 long-endurance Predator drones from the United States. Additionally, they approved the domestic construction of two nuclear-powered conventional submarines, aiming to boost India’s military capabilities.

The delivery of MQ-9B drones, equipped with Hellfire missiles, GBU-39B precision-guided glide bombs, navigation systems, sensor suites, and mobile ground control systems, will start in 04 years and be completed within 06 years.

Why India Needs the MQ-9B Drones?

India’s strategic position is sensitive and calls for modern surveillance apparatus and clear reconnaissance capabilities. The MQ-9B drones, known for their high altitude and long endurance (HALE) capabilities, are integral to India’s interests:

1. Border Surveillance: With ongoing tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, these drones will provide critical real-time intelligence and surveillance.
2. Maritime Security: The Indian Ocean Region (IOR) is a strategic area where the presence of Chinese submarines and warships has been increasing. The Sea Guardian variant of the MQ-9B drones will bolster maritime domain awareness and anti-submarine warfare capabilities of Indian Navy.
3. Counter-Terrorism: The drones will support counterterrorism and counter-insurgency operations, particularly in regions like Kashmir, by providing precise targeting and surveillance.

Strategic Implications

The acquisition of the MQ-9B drones signifies a deepening of the strategic partnership between India and the United States. It also aligns with India’s broader defense modernization efforts and its goal of achieving self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

The ultra-modern technical features will enable Indian forces to have a modernized surveillance landscape and the Hellfire Missile onboard the drone, will be used for precision strikes on high value targets with minimum collateral damage.

The contract includes the establishment of a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in India, which will ensure sustained operational readiness and foster technology transfer.

The MQ-9B drones will intensely enhance India’s surveillance, reconnaissance, and unmanned deep strike capabilities, addressing both conventional and asymmetric threats.