He stated that the MQ-9B would surpass any other aircraft in its category in terms of operational range, endurance, and mission versatility.Īccording to Lall, the MQ-9B, including its variants SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian, is equipped with advanced systems that allow it to capture full-motion video in various conditions, whether it’s day or night. In the interview with PTI, Vivek Lall, the chief executive of General Atomics Global Corporation, emphasized the capabilities of the MQ-9B drone and its potential benefits for the Indian military. The Quad countries, including the United States, India, Australia, and Japan, have operated or currently operate the MQ-9B SeaGuardian. The drone’s integration into civil airspace allows for joint operations and collaboration between military forces and civil authorities, enabling effective responses in various scenarios such as humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, search and rescue, law enforcement, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, airborne mine countermeasures, long-range strategic intelligence, over-the-horizon targeting, and anti-submarine warfare, the report adds. With a flight endurance of over 30 hours and the ability to operate in all weather conditions, the SeaGuardian can conduct long-range surveillance and deliver real-time situational awareness in the maritime domain, according to a report by Business Today. The MQ-9B SeaGuardian is a maritime-focused drone that offers advanced capabilities for extended endurance and versatile operations. This partnership is seen as a significant step in advancing the technological capabilities and expertise in the field of unmanned aerial systems, the report states. The collaboration between the two companies is expected to contribute to the development of capabilities for both sides and bolster the unmanned aircraft industry in India. As the deal progresses, General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, the manufacturer of these drones, has partnered with Bharat Forge to produce landing gear components, subassemblies, and assemblies for remotely piloted aircraft, specifically the Predator drones. Why Does India Need the Drones?Īccording to an India Today report, military planners view the acquisition of Predator armed drones as a means to enhance India’s offensive capabilities. In this specific deal, the Indian Navy is leading the acquisition process, with the intention of acquiring 15 drones for conducting surveillance operations within its designated area of responsibility, the report said.Īdditionally, the Indian armed forces have plans to procure similar medium altitude and long endurance drones from domestic sources, as part of their efforts to enhance indigenous capabilities. However, final approval for high-value acquisitions is granted by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). The DAC, as the highest authority in the Defence Ministry for acquisition decisions, plays a crucial role in approving acquisitions. The acquisition proposal will now have to follow a procedure after which it will have to be cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Security," ANI quoted defence sources as saying. “The deal for the Predator drones was given approval by the Defence Acquisition Council meeting today. The final decision on the deal will be made by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), ANI reported. Even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for his visit to the United States, the Defence Ministry granted approval on Thursday for the acquisition of Predator (MQ-9 Reaper) drones from America.
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