India is gearing up to revolutionize its defense strategy with the acquisition of 31 MQ-9 Predator drones from the U.S. This will enhance surveillance and airstrike capabilities powered by advanced artificial intelligence.
According to the officials, India aims to acquire 31 MQ-9B Predator drones in the $3.9 billion deal. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Tuesday approved the acquisition. The Indian Navy is expected to receive 15 units, while the Army and Air Force will each be allocated 8.
Apart from the acquisition, a Foreign Military Sales agreement was finalized on Tuesday to build a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India. This will help India to keep acquired drones in good health.
U.S. military and corporate representatives are already in the country to formalize the deal. The ceremony was attended by senior Indian defense officials, including the Joint Secretary for Naval Systems and the Acquisition Manager.
As China’s intrusion into the Indian Ocean through the ‘string of pearls’ has intensified in recent years, MQ-9B Predator drones will help India monitor emerging threats.
Recently, India’s newly appointed Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh recently raised concern over the weakened strength of the Indian airforce. He emphasized the urgent need for modernization of the Indian Air Force.
The MQ-9B Predator, also known as the Reaper, is an advanced remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) developed by General Atomics. It is designed for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and precision-strike missions.
It has a wingspan of 79 feet and a maximum takeoff weight of 5,670 kilograms, the MQ-9B offers exceptional endurance. It is capable of staying airborne for over 40 hours at an operational altitude of up to 50,000 feet.
The drone is equipped with a variety of sensors, including synthetic aperture radar (SAR), electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) cameras, and the ability to carry various payloads like Hellfire missiles and guided bombs for precision strikes.
Artificial intelligence plays a crucial role in the development of Predator drones, helping drones in Autonomous Decision-Making and real-time data processing. AI algorithms enable the MQ-9B to carry out semi-autonomous missions. This includes flight path adjustments, target identification, and prioritization.
