The United States authorised the sale of 31 MQ-9B armed drones to India on Thursday at an estimated cost of USD 3.99 billion, according to an American defence agency, news agency PTI reported. The projected mega drone agreement was revealed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's historic state visit here in June 2023.
“The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of India of MQ-9B Remotely Piloted Aircraft and related equipment for an estimated cost of USD 3.99 billion,” the Defense Security Cooperation Agency's statement was quoted by PTI in its report.
On Thursday, the Agency said it submitted the requisite certification informing Congress of the potential sale.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to strengthen the US-Indian strategic relationship and to improve the security of a major defence partner, which continues to be an important force for political stability, peace, and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia region,” the agency said.
“The proposed sale will improve India’s capability to meet current and future threats by enabling unmanned surveillance and reconnaissance patrols in sea lanes of operation,” it added.
Earlier on Friday, U.S. Senator Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, made a statement approving the sale of MQ-9 drones to India after the administration provided assurances regarding efforts taken to address recent claims of transnational repression, according to a press release issue by US's foreign relations committee.
Highlighting India-US relations, Senator Ben stated: "The partnership between two countries plays a key role in Indo Pacific stability, including through regional mechanisms such as the Quad. I support deepening our bilateral relationship with India as long as that partnership is based on mutual trust and respect. Championing human rights and democratic values globally is one of my top priorities. Progress on these issues requires difficult discussions about our own democracy, as well as discussions with our closest allies and friends. I will continue raising human rights issues with the Administration, as well as our Indian counterparts, because I believe that our shared values are fundamental to the growth and longevity of our partnership.”
Under the terms of the agreement, India would get 31 High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) UAVs, with the Navy receiving 15 SeaGuardian drones and the Army and Indian Air Force receiving eight SkyGuardian land versions.