US and India sign $3.5 billion deal to buy 31 drones

On October 16, Army Recognition reported that India and the United States have officially signed a $3.5 billion deal to purchase 31 MQ-9B High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) unmanned aerial vehicles. This deal is not only aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy, Air Force and Army, but is also part of a comprehensive modernization strategy of the country's defense infrastructure.

According to information from the Indian Ministry of Defense , of the 31 aircraft purchased, 15 will be assigned to the Indian Navy as the Sea Guardian version, while the Sky Guardian versions will be allocated to the Air Force and the Army, each receiving eight aircraft.

The MQ-9 Reaper, developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, is a combat drone designed for surveillance, reconnaissance and target attack missions. (Photo source: US Department of Defense)

This is an important move in the context of India facing security challenges from its northern border, where there is a Chinese military presence, as well as from the west with Pakistan. The presence of MQ-9B drones will help India improve its surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, thereby ensuring security in the Indo-Pacific region. It is known that this procurement contract is carried out under the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, marking an important milestone in the development of India's defense technology and capabilities.

In addition to the procurement agreement, a performance-based logistics (PBL) agreement has been signed with General Atomics Global India Pvt Ltd. The agreement will ensure on-site maintenance and operational support through maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services in India, facilitating self-reliance in defence maintenance management.

Operationally, the MQ-9B drones will be deployed under the joint command of the three services, with bases located in the northern, northeastern and southern regions of India. The INS Rajali naval base near Chennai will serve as the main operational hub for maritime operations. This is also where the Sea Guardian drones have been operating under a lease agreement with the US. The Indian government is considering integrating indigenous weapons into these aircraft, to enhance interoperability and tactical adaptability.

The MQ-9 Reaper, developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, is one of the most advanced drones available today. Powered by a Honeywell TPE-331-10T turboprop engine, the MQ-9 can reach a maximum speed of 480 km/h and operate at altitudes of up to 15,200 meters. Advanced features such as synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and electro-optical turret give the MQ-9 the ability to identify and track targets from long distances, making it ideal for surveillance and precision strike missions.

This agreement will not only benefit India’s operational capabilities but also strengthen its position in regional defense alliances. The enhancement of defense capabilities through the modernization of military equipment such as the MQ-9B will certainly help India better meet security challenges in the rapidly changing geopolitical landscape of the Indo-Pacific region.

Source: https://congthuong.vn/my-va-an-do-ky-ket-thoa-thuan-tri-gia-35-ty-usd-mua-31-may-bay-khong-nguoi-lai-352848.html