The United States approved on Thursday a deal to sell advanced drones to India worth $4 billion, enhancing New Delhi’s military capabilities amidst escalating border tensions with China. This deal marks a significant shift for India, which historically relied on purchasing Russian weapons before facing sanctions due to the conflict in Ukraine.
During Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Washington last year, discussions on the drone deal took place as a result of military confrontations between India, China, and Pakistan. Following months of negotiations, the US State Department notified Congress of the proposed deal, which includes 31 MQ-9B Sky Guardian drones, the most advanced version of the Predator drones manufactured by General Atomics.
The State Department emphasized that the proposed deal will improve India’s capabilities to counter current and future threats by enhancing surveillance and reconnaissance patrols in maritime regions. Additionally, the statement highlighted India’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces and its ability to integrate these drones into its military.
The Guardian drones can monitor both sea and submarine activities, remain airborne for up to 35 hours per mission, launch Hellfire missiles, and carry bombs weighing up to 450 kilograms. However, the deal still requires approval from the US Congress, where most members lean towards strengthening relations with India, except for Democratic progressives critical of Modi’s human rights record.
Since the border clash in the Himalayas in 2020, tensions between India and China have escalated, with both countries deploying tens of thousands of soldiers along the borders. Despite 19 rounds of talks between military officials from both countries, the tension has not subsided, following the loss of 20 Indian soldiers and at least four Chinese soldiers.
This significant development underscores the evolving geopolitical dynamics in the region, with the sale of these drones seen as a strategic move by the US to support India in countering regional threats.
