India US Drone Deal: MQ-9B Drones (UAV)

Context: 

The US State Department has approved the sale of MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft to India under the foreign military sales program.

India US Drone Deal

• India US Drone Deal covers the proposed sale of 31 Sky Guardian drones and related equipment to India for an estimated cost of $3.99 billion.  
• As part of the deal, India will receive a weapon package that includes 170 Hellfire Missiles, 310 GBU39 laser Small Diameter Bombs, and various other equipment.

Significance Of India US Drone Deal

• Improved Border Surveillance: Provides round-the-clock surveillance capabilities. Monitors movement along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.. 
• Contribution to Counterterrorism: Supportive role in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations, particularly in regions like Kashmir affected by militancy.
• Enhanced Maritime Surveillance: SeaGuardian variant designed for maritime missions, will enhance the Indian Navy’s surveillance and maritime security capabilities. 
• Seamless Integration with Existing Platforms: Integrates seamlessly with other U.S.-origin platforms operated by India. Enables coordinated operations with platforms like P-8I, AH-64 Apache, and MH-60R multi-role helicopters.
• Cost-Effective Solution: Provides approximately 80% capability of large human-flown maritime patrol aircraft at 20% of its cost per hour. Saves time, costs, and reduces wear and tear on manned platforms.
• Reduced Personnel Fatigue: The utilization of MQ-9B drones contributes to lowered crew fatigue among armed forces personnel, optimizing operational efficiency.

About MQ-9B Drones

• MQ-9B Drones are derivatives of the MQ-9 Reaper designed for both remotely controlled and autonomous flight operations. 
• It is a high-altitude, long-endurance drone equipped with precision strike missiles.
• Developed by: General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI).
• Two variants — The SkyGuardian and its maritime counterpart, the SeaGuardian. 
  • Since 2020, the Indian Navy has been actively utilizing the MQ-9B Sea Guardian. 

Notable Features of MQ-9B Drones

• Payload capacity of 5,670 kg and a Fuel capacity of 2,721 kg. 
• Operating Altitude & Endurance Range : over 40,000 feet altitude, maximum endurance of 40 hours,making it an ideal platform for extended surveillance missions.
• Versatile Operational Capabilities: 
  • It demonstrates all-weather capabilities, conducting over-the-horizon flights via satellite for up to 40 hours, regardless of weather conditions. 
  • It can safely integrate into civil airspace, facilitating joint forces & civil authorities in delivering real-time situational awareness across the maritime domain, regardless of day or night conditions. 
  • land and maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, strike operations, electronic warfare, and expeditionary roles.
  • Distinguishing attributes is its capability for automatic take-offs and landings, enhancing operational efficiency. 
  • The MQ-9B drones can provide roughly 80% of the capability of a large human-flown maritime patrol aircraft at about 20% of its cost per hour. 

Also Read: 

• Fifth Annual India-U.S. 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue
• NAMO Drone Didi Scheme

News Source: The Hindu 

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