30, June, 2024
India plans to enhance its military strength through a competitive deal with the United States to procure 31 MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS), commonly known as drones. The deal aims to bridge technological gaps faced by the country’s Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and strengthen India’s defence capabilities.
Transparent Acquisition Process
Under the defence procurement rules, India’s Defence Acquisitions Council (DAC) has approved the acquisition of 31 MQ-9B General Atomics high altitude long endurance (HALE) drones. This acceptance of necessity from the council is the first step towards buying military hardware. The deal, which will be conducted under the foreign military sales (FMS) program, Washington’s government-to-government platform for selling US-built platforms, promises transparency in the negotiation process.
Negotiations and Contract Finalization
Negotiations for the deal are yet to begin, and the price and terms of the contract will be finalized towards the end of the process. India aims to negotiate a competitive deal with the US for the MQ-9B drones. The Defence Ministry officials have assured that the contract negotiation committee will finalize the terms of agreement, which will then be approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Transfer of Critical Technologies
The proposed deal not only focuses on the acquisition of drones but also emphasizes the transfer of critical technologies. India aims to bridge the technological gaps in developing similar systems indigenously. Additionally, the officials mentioned that India is looking to increase the element of technology transfer from the current 8-9% to 15% to 20%. This move aligns with India’s long-term goals of boosting indigenous defence capabilities.
Cost and Comparison
US firm General Atomics has offered the 31 drones to India for around $3.07 billion. However, the cost is subject to negotiations. Weapons, sensors, ground control stations, ground data terminals, ground handling equipment, spares, and logistical support are all projected to be included in the cost of the drones. It is worth noting that even the current price offered by the US is lower than what other countries are paying for the same type of drones in different configurations.
India’s Drone Manufacturing Hub
If the deal is successfully negotiated, it will help India establish itself as a hub for the manufacturing of drones. Ten drones are likely to be purchased off the shelf, while the remaining 21 will be assembled in India. This move is in line with India’s goals of self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Strengthening Defence Capabilities
The acquisition of MQ-9B drones holds significant importance for India’s defence strategy. The Indian Navy already operates a pair of unarmed MQ-9B drones leased from the US, which have been instrumental in enhancing surveillance capabilities in the Indian Ocean region. The current deal for armed drones gained urgency after the military standoff with China in the Ladakh sector, highlighting the need to strengthen vigilance and preparedness along the disputed border.
India’s negotiation for the acquisition of 31 MQ-9B drones from the US with transfer of critical technologies demonstrates its commitment to enhancing defence capabilities and bridging technological gaps. The proposed deal holds the potential to establish India as a hub for drone manufacturing, thereby boosting self-reliance and indigenous defence capabilities.
