The mega drone deal during PM Modi’s US visit and what it means for India

Amidst rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific, India and the United States will break new ground in defence relations with a major drone deal during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s US visit. The agreement, marked by the procurement of MQ-9B Predator drones and the co-production of GE-F414 INS6 turbo-fan engines, promises to heighten India's defence prowess while signaling a shift in its strategic alignment. This deal places India's capability to engage in long-range intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike missions at a new high, thus significantly altering the region's geopolitical landscape.

Strategic importance of the drone deal

The need for such a deal arises primarily due to two key considerations – the growing aggression from China in the Indo-Pacific region and India's objective to reduce reliance on Russian military equipment. This alignment of strategic interests is driving the United States and India to boost defense-industrial collaboration.

What can MQ-9B predator drones do

MQ-9B Predator drones, developed by General Atomics, are renowned for their precision surveillance and combat capabilities. The variants India seeks, MQ-9B SkyGuardian and MQ-9B SeaGuardian, boast of impressive features including extended endurance, satellite connectivity, and payload capacities exceeding 2,000 kg. These high-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicles will greatly enhance India's surveillance and strategic operations capabilities. Given India's limited domestic drone manufacturing capabilities, the procurement of Predators is expected to provide immediate operational advantages while also accelerating local research and development efforts.

Why India needs MQ-9B drones

India sees the MQ-9B drones, recognised for their precise surveillance and combat capacities, as key to its defence. These long-endurance, high-altitude drones enhance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations, capable of handling various missions with payloads over 2,000 kg, and precise strikes.

The acquisition comes amidst China's assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific and ongoing border tensions, enhancing surveillance at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

The deal reflects India's shift from Russian to American military technology, coinciding with the global rise in drone usage, as seen in nations like the US, UK, France, Italy, Spain, and Japan.

While India seeks to develop indigenous drones like Tapas-BH-201 and Ghatak, its limited manufacturing capabilities remain a hurdle. The technology transfer in this deal promises to boost India's drone research and industry growth.

The impact of MQ-9B on India's airpower

The acquisition of these drones significantly bolsters India's existing airpower. They can operate at altitudes of up to 50,000 feet, and have a payload capacity of 1746 kilograms, capable of carrying various mission payloads including sensors, bombs, missiles, and radar systems. They will enhance India's surveillance capabilities along the Line of Actual Control and in the Indian Ocean.

Co-production and technology transfer

The strategic importance of this deal extends beyond mere procurement, impacting India's long-term defence plans. The deal is not just about buying, but also about co-production of the GE-F414 INS6 turbo-fan engines for the Tejas Mark-2 fighters, leading to technology transfer and fostering domestic manufacturing capabilities. Furthermore, the partnership is expected to enhance India's ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region and along its borders with China and Pakistan.