The US on Thursday approved the sale of 31 MQ-9B armed drones to India at an estimated cost of USD 3.99 billion, an acquisition that will bolster India’s capability to meet current and future threats by enabling unmanned surveillance and reconnaissance patrols in sea lanes of operation
United States has approved the sale of 31 MQ-9B armed drones to New Delhi. The proposed sale, valued at nearly USD 4 billion, underscores the deepening partnership between the two nations, with the US terming its alliance with India as among the most consequential ones.
The acquisition of 31 MQ-9B armed drones will enable India to bolster its capacity to address current and future threats by conducting unmanned surveillance and reconnaissance patrols in sea lanes of operation. Under the deal, India will receive 31 High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) UAVs, including 15 SeaGuardian drones for the Navy and eight each of the land version SkyGuardian for the Army and the Indian Air Force.
State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasised the significance of the deal, highlighting that it will provide India with enhanced maritime security and maritime domain awareness capabilities. He noted that the sale offers India outright ownership and represents a substantial increase in the number of aircraft compared to their current lease of two MQ-9A aircraft.
“I would say that our partnership with India is one of our most consequential relationships. We work closely with India on our most vital priorities,” Miller told reporters at his daily news conference.
Regarding the timeline for the delivery of the drones, Miller stated that discussions with the Government of India will take place over the coming months to determine the exact schedule. Also, he acknowledged the close working relationship between the US and outgoing Indian Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu, recognising their collaboration on shared priorities, including the Indo-Pacific region’s security and prosperity.
As Ambassador Sandhu concludes his 35-year diplomatic career this month, Miller expressed well wishes for his future endeavours and anticipated welcoming his replacement. He also highlighted the close working relationship between US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar, emphasising their engagement on urgent and important priorities through various meetings and interactions.
The approval of the sale of armed drones underscores the strategic partnership between the US and India, strengthening cooperation in defence and security matters while promoting regional stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
