India and U.S. Finalize $3.5 Billion Deal for 31 MQ-9B Armed Drones

India and the United States have concluded a landmark $3.5 billion deal for the acquisition of 31 MQ-9B High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) armed drones, significantly boosting India's military capabilities. The agreement, announced on Tuesday, October 15, 2024, includes 15 Sea Guardian drones for the Indian Navy, and 16 Sky Guardian drones, with eight each allocated to the Indian Army and the Air Force.

The deal was formalized through two contracts: one signed with the U.S. government for the tri-service procurement of MQ-9B drones and another with General Atomics Global India Pvt Ltd for performance-based logistics, ensuring Depot Level Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul in India. The contracts were signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane, according to the Defence Ministry.

Approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security last week, the MQ-9B drones are expected to enhance India’s Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. The Indian Navy will particularly benefit from the Sea Guardian drones in monitoring the Indian Ocean Region, reducing the strain on its P-8I maritime patrol aircraft. The addition of these drones is seen as a critical force multiplier for India's defense forces.

This deal follows another major approval for the indigenous construction of two Nuclear Attack Submarines (SSN). Additionally, a high-profile pending agreement with the U.S. involves the local production of General Electric F414 jet engines by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A.

These agreements reflect the growing defense cooperation between India and the U.S. as part of their broader strategic partnership.