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MQ-9B Predator Drone
Context: India and the US are finalising a deal for 31 MQ-9B Predator drones, valued at approximately USD 3.1 billion. The American side is offering consultancy to assist Indian entities in developing an advanced indigenous unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).
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It is set to be discussed and cleared at the upcoming Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meeting, the first under the Narendra Modi 3.0 administration, which is expected to drive forward India’s indigenisation efforts in the defence sector.
Key Highlights:
- Approved procurement of 31 MQ-9B UAVs from General Atomics: 15 Sea Guardians for the Indian Navy. 16 Sky Guardians (8 each for the Indian Army and Air Force).
- The drones will be deployed strategically across India.
- The Indian Navy plans to station these drones at four key locations, including INS Rajaji near Chennai and Porbandar in Gujarat.
- The Air Force and Army will jointly operate the remaining drones at two bases in Sarsawa and Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh.
- These deployments are expected to enhance surveillance capabilities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh.
- They are expected to greatly improve India’s surveillance in the Indian Ocean and along its high-altitude borders with Pakistan and China.
About MQ-9B:
- It is an advanced remotely piloted aircraft system designed for persistent ISR missions globally.
- Flight Capabilities:
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- Flight Time: 40+ hours.
- Altitude: Over 40,000 feet.
- Armament: Capable of carrying Hellfire air-to-ground missiles and smart bombs.
- It operates effectively in all types of weather.
- The drones will significantly enhance Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities for the Indian armed forces.
- Previously used for anti-piracy operations, monitoring actions 3,000 km from Indian shores.
- It provides real-time situational awareness for joint forces and civil authorities worldwide, both day and night.