India Races to Seal $3.9 Billion Deal for US Hunter-Killer Drones Amid Rising China-Pakistan Threats

India Races to Seal $3.9 Billion Deal: In a strategic move to bolster its defense capabilities, India is accelerating negotiations with the United States to acquire 31 advanced MQ-9B ‘hunter-killer’ drones. This significant $3.9 billion deal is expected to be finalized by the end of this year as India faces growing threats from China and Pakistan, both of which are rapidly enhancing their armed drone arsenals.

India’s Response to China-Pakistan Drone Build-Up

As China continues its military confrontation in eastern Ladakh and supplies armed Cai Hong-4 and Wing Loong-II drones to Pakistan, India is stepping up its efforts to strengthen its defense posture. The MQ-9B Reaper or Predator-B drones, known for their high-altitude, long-endurance capabilities, are equipped with Hellfire air-to-ground missiles and precision-guided bombs, making them a formidable asset in India’s defense strategy.

The drones, which can operate at altitudes above 40,000 feet for up to 40 hours, are expected to significantly enhance India’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. India has already tested the effectiveness of these drones through extensive ISR missions conducted by two unarmed Sea Guardian drones leased from US firm General Atomics.

Breakdown of the Deal: Navy, Army, and Air Force to Receive MQ-9B Drones

The techno-commercial discussions for the government-to-government contract have reached an advanced stage, with the Indian defense ministry planning to allocate 15 Sea Guardian drones to the Navy and eight Sky Guardian drones each to the Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF). These drones are considered far superior to the Chinese armed drones currently in use by Pakistan.

The deal, which includes 170 Hellfire missiles, 310 GBU-39B precision-guided bombs, and a range of advanced navigation and sensor systems, is valued at over Rs 33,500 crore. However, the Indian negotiating team is actively working to reduce the overall cost.

Local Assembly and MRO Facility to Boost Indian Defense Industry

One of the key aspects of this deal is the local assembly of the MQ-9B drones in India. General Atomics, the US-based manufacturer, will source components from Indian companies and establish a global maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in the country. This move not only strengthens India’s defense capabilities but also supports the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative by boosting the local defense industry.

“The price and terms offered to other countries by the US government and General Atomics are being considered. Every effort is being made to finalize the deal within this year after the cabinet committee on security gives its approval,” a source close to the negotiations revealed.

India aims to induct the first 10 MQ-9B drones within a couple of years after the contract is signed, significantly enhancing its defense readiness against potential threats from its neighbors.

Strategic Implications for the Region

As India pushes to secure this deal, the strategic implications for the region are profound. The acquisition of these highly advanced drones will not only provide India with a critical edge in monitoring and responding to threats but will also send a strong message to China and Pakistan about India’s commitment to safeguarding its national security.

Stay tuned for further updates as India moves closer to finalizing this crucial defense agreement.