New Delhi: In a landmark agreement aimed at strengthening India’s defense capabilities, the Indian government has officially signed a contract with the United States for the procurement of 31 MQ-9B Predator drones. The deal, which encompasses the tri-service acquisition of the MQ-9B Sky Guardian and Sea Guardian models, was finalized in New Delhi in the presence of Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane.
In addition to the drone procurement, the Ministry of Defence has also entered into a separate contract with General Atomics Global India Private Limited for performance-based logistics. This agreement will facilitate depot-level maintenance, repair, and overhaul of the drones within India, ensuring operational efficiency and support.
According to reports, this significant purchase was recently approved by the government and is expected to be a game changer for the Indian defense forces. The MQ-9B Predator drones represent a next-generation advancement in remotely piloted aircraft, capable of executing a variety of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. With an operational altitude exceeding 40,000 feet and speeds of approximately 400 kilometers per hour, these drones will greatly enhance India’s military firepower and operational readiness.
