Tensions with China drive India's approval of $3B deal for 31 MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones from US.

For the past three years, Chinese and Indian forces have maintained a concentrated presence along the border, remaining on high alert due to ongoing tensions. In a development of profound importance, the Indian Defence Ministry has recently approved the acquisition of 31 MQ-9B SeaGuardian (Predator-B) drones from the United States, marking a $3 billion milestone in fortifying India's defence capabilities with cutting-edge technology.
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MQ-9B SeaGuardian (Picture source: GA-ASI)

The MQ-9B SeaGuardian is a highly advanced UAV renowned for its exceptional surveillance and reconnaissance performance. With an impressive endurance of up to 40 hours, it can operate at altitudes of 50,000 feet and cover a range of over 6,000 nautical miles.

Equipped with advanced sensors, including high-resolution cameras, synthetic aperture radar (SAR), and electronic intelligence (ELINT) systems, the MQ-9B SeaGuardian delivers comprehensive situational awareness. It can perform multiple missions simultaneously, including surveillance, target acquisition, and intelligence gathering.

In addition to the 31 drones, an Rs 800 crore (approximately $97.6 million) agreement is expected to be announced for leasing two MQ-9B SeaGuardian combat drones specifically for the Indian Navy. The remaining drones will be divided among the Indian Tri-services, with 15 allotted to the Indian Navy, and 8 each for the Army and the Air Force.

The acquisition of these drones comes at a crucial time as tensions with China have heightened India's vigilance and monitoring capabilities. The military stand-off along the disputed border has underscored the importance of advanced surveillance technology in addressing emerging security challenges.

The Indian Navy has already been operating two MQ-9 drones leased from the US since November 2020, which have proven effective in surveillance operations and have become integral to India's defence strategy. This successful deployment has further reinforced India's interest in acquiring additional unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

The MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones will significantly enhance India's surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, bolstering its defence forces with cutting-edge technology. They are considered pivotal in enhancing India's vigilance and monitoring capabilities to effectively address emerging security challenges.

This landmark $3 billion deal exemplifies India's commitment to advancing defence technology and strategic partnerships. The introduction of MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones will position India as a technologically advanced force in the region, solidifying its defence capabilities.

Defense News June 2023