Modi's strategic preparations for meeting with Joe Biden; Capital gears up for acquisition of 31 advanced drones

NEW DELHI: Even before the meeting with US President Joe Biden, India has procured 31 MQ Reaper drones. The capital is set to seal an agreement with the US government for permission for drones this financial year.

Known as ‘Predator’ drones, these can fly up to 40,000 feet for about 40 hours. MQ Reaper drones are superior to China's existing armed drones. China is currently supplying Pakistan with Kai Hong 4 and Wing Loong 2.

Out of the 31 drones, 15 are designated for the Navy and eight for the Air Force. The new deal is estimated to cost around Rs 29,000 crore. Officials have stated that these high-quality drones will be assembled within the country with General Atomics collaborating with Indian companies to manufacture the necessary components for the drones. Technical and commercial discussions have already taken place, and the agreement will be signed after receiving the final approval from the US Cabinet Committee according to officials.

India hopes to receive ten MQ-9B drones within the first one or two years after signing the contract. The remainder may be received in batches within six months. Additionally, nine hardpoint drones capable of carrying missiles and smart bombs will enhance India's strike capabilities in the Indian Ocean region. The Ministry of Defence plans to deploy these drones at three tri-service ISR command and control stations in the North East and North West.

In July of the previous year, the Ministry of Defence had conducted tests on the Stealth Wing Flying Testbed (Swift) drone. However, it will take several years for it to become operational. India temporarily took delivery of two Sea Guardian drones from General Atomics in September 2020.