(Image source from: AP)

India has made a significant purchase by signing a deal with the United States to acquire 31 MQ-9B Predator drones. The Indian Navy will receive 15 'SeaGuardian' variants, while the Army and Air Force will each get 8 'SkyGuardian' Predator drones. The total cost of this deal is expected to be less than $3.5 billion. The Cabinet Committee on Security has approved this acquisition from the American manufacturer, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, under a Foreign Military Sales contract. The MQ-9B Predator drone is a variant of the MQ-9 'Reaper' and is classified as a high-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle. It can fly for 40 hours at altitudes above 40,000 feet and has a payload capacity of 2,155 kg. In addition to its surveillance capabilities, the MQ-9B is also equipped with strike missiles, allowing it to accurately target and hit objectives. The drone can also perform automatic take-offs and landings, and can safely operate in civil airspace.

The deal aims to enhance strategic technology cooperation between the US and India, as well as increase military collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region. This proposed sale was announced during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit last year and has the potential to significantly advance the partnership between the two countries, particularly in terms of military cooperation in the region.