By enabling unmanned surveillance and reconnaissance patrols in maritime lanes, India will be better equipped to counter present and future threats thanks to the anticipated $3.99 billion cost of these high-altitude, long-endurance UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles).
The planned agreement calls for the Indian Air Force and Army to receive eight SkyGuardian drones each, while the Indian Navy will receive fifteen SeaGuardian drones. Matthew Miller, a spokesman for the US State Department, claims that the drones will improve India’s domain awareness and marine security.
Source: NDTV
Miller has stated that America’s relationship with India is “one of our most consequential relationships,” even though the two governments are still finalising the terms of the agreement and the delivery schedule.
The maturity of the bilateral ties is reflected in the drone deal. Both parties have refused to let their strategic and defence cooperation be jeopardised by the dissonance created by the Gurpatwant Singh Pannun case. There has been a constant flow of information into the investigation into the claims that an Indian had a hand in a plot to assassinate the targeted terrorist.
Source: WION
It is impossible to exaggerate the significance of maritime security, particularly in light of the worrying revival of piracy and the militant groups’ targeting of ships in the Red Sea. The Indian destroyer INS Sumitra recently conducted anti-piracy operations and freed two hijacked fishing vessels and their crew members with the help of a rented MQ-9B drone. The drone purchase is expected to receive approval from the US Congress, and as a result, the Indian defence forces would be able to increase their weaponry and observation capabilities.
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