India is set to enhance its military surveillance capabilities by purchasing 31 Predator drones from the US at a cost of Rs 32,000 crore. The deal is expected to be signed on Tuesday. Along with the procurement, a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) centre will be established in India. The Cabinet Committee on Security approved the purchase last week, marking a significant boost for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Of the 31 drones, 15 will be allocated to the Navy, while the Army and Air Force will each receive eight. According to defence officials, the contract, part of the US Foreign Military Sales program, will be signed by US military and corporate representatives currently in New Delhi.
Indian officials, including the naval systems’ Joint Secretary and Acquisition Manager, will also attend the signing ceremony. Talks for this deal had been ongoing for years, with final clearance granted during a recent Defence Acquisition Council meeting, as the deal had to be completed before the October 31 deadline set by the US.
The Predator drones will likely be deployed at four key locations, including INS Rajali near Chennai, Porbandar in Gujarat and Sarsawa and Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are known for their lethal precision, having been extensively used by the US military in Afghanistan against Al Qaeda, including in missions that targeted Osama bin Laden and his successor, Ayman al-Zawahiri.
The Predator drone has several advanced features, including a range of up to 1,900 km, a top speed of 480 kmph and the ability to carry a payload of 2,100 kg. It can remain airborne for up to 35 hours, operate in any weather conditions, and attack targets from air, land and sea.
Additionally, it is capable of flying at altitudes over 50,000 feet and it is equipped with automatic takeoff and landing systems, making it a versatile tool for both combat and surveillance operations.
