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In a significant boost to its armed forces, India has signed a deal with the United States to acquire 31 MQ-9B Predator drones. This agreement, valued at under $3.5 billion, marks a major milestone in strengthening India's military capabilities. The acquisition of these advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) will significantly enhance India's surveillance, reconnaissance, and offensive capabilities across various domains.
The Predator drones, manufactured by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, are highly versatile and capable of performing a wide range of missions. The Indian Navy is set to receive 15 of these drones, specifically the 'Sea Guardian' variant, which is tailored for maritime operations. These drones will play a crucial role in bolstering India's maritime security and monitoring activities in the Indian Ocean region. The Indian Army and Air Force will each receive eight 'Sky Guardian' Predator drones, designed for land-based operations. These drones will enhance the armed forces' surveillance and targeting capabilities, providing critical support for various missions.
The acquisition of these Predator drones is a testament to the growing strategic partnership between India and the United States. The two countries have been working closely on defense cooperation in recent years, with a focus on sharing technology and strengthening interoperability. The Predator drone deal is a major step forward in this partnership, highlighting the importance of the US-India relationship in the Indo-Pacific region. The drones are expected to significantly enhance India's ability to monitor its borders, counter terrorism, and respond effectively to emerging security threats.