In a noteworthy development on February 3, 2024, India and the United States sealed a significant deal, marking a triumph in their bilateral relations. The US State Department granted approval for the sale of 31 MQ-9B armed drones to India, valued at an estimated USD 3.99 billion.

This acquisition of American-made military drones is poised to enhance India’s defense capabilities against current and future threats. The MQ-9B drones are designed for unmanned surveillance and reconnaissance patrols in crucial sea lanes of operation.

State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, “Our collaboration with India ranks among our most consequential relationships, addressing our vital priorities.”

US Senator Ben Cardin, Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, shared that his initial objections to the drone deal were lifted after months of meticulous discussions with the Biden Administration. This followed assurances that India would collaborate with the United States in investigating an alleged plot to assassinate a Khalistani separatist on American soil.

Under the USD 4 billion agreement, India is set to receive 31 High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The Indian Navy will be equipped with 15 SeaGuardian drones, while the Army and the Indian Air Force will each receive 8 SkyGuardian drones.

When questioned about the timeline for delivery, Spokesperson Miller highlighted that the notification to Congress was the initial step, and the exact timeline would be explored in the coming months.

The deal, valued at almost USD 4 billion, provides India with an enhanced maritime security and maritime domain awareness capability, asserted Miller. This sale offers India outright ownership and a remarkable 16-fold increase in aircraft compared to its current lease of two MQ-9A drones.

General Atomics Aeronautical, the manufacturer, described the MQ-9B SkyGuardian as the next generation of remotely piloted aircraft systems, offering persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance globally.

The drones can be configured for various operations, including humanitarian assistance, search and rescue, law enforcement, border enforcement, and more. Notably, the SeaGuardian mission kit equips the drones for anti-submarine warfare, airborne mine countermeasures, and defensive counter-air operations.

Highlighting the close working relationship between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Indian Minister of External Affairs S. Jaishankar, Miller emphasized their engagement on urgent priorities. The partnership between the two nations, crucial to Indo-Pacific stability, was underscored through mechanisms like the Quad.

The drone deal had faced a hurdle due to an alleged plot to kill Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Senator Cardin’s approval came after securing New Delhi’s cooperation in the investigation into the foiled plot, reinforcing the commitment to human rights and democratic values.

In conclusion, the Indo-US pact on advanced military drones signifies a milestone in their strategic collaboration, bolstering India’s defense capabilities and underscoring the importance of mutual trust and respect in bilateral relations.

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