India plans to buy 30 Armed Drones from US to boost defence

India plans to buy 30 Armed Drones from US to boost defence.

According to the New York-based international news agency Bloomberg, India is planning to buy drones from the United States.

India plans to buy 30 Armed Drones from US to boost defence

While citing unnamed officials, it further reported that India will approve the $3 billion in April to purchase of 30 MQ-9B Predator drones.

San Diego-based General Atomics have manufactured these drones.

Currently, India can use its drones for surveillance and reconnaissance but the addition of armed drones will add to India’s military capabilities.

Moreover, India is emerging as a strategic defense partner for the U.S.

Particularly India has become partner in countering Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean and some areas of Southeast Asia.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government stays in the midst of a 10-year, $250 billion military modernization.

However, Pentagon officials didn’t respond to a request for comment.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin may visit India this month, while President Joe Biden will soon join counterparts from India, Japan and Australia in the first-ever meeting of the “Quad” bloc.

The leaders will meet virtually on March 12 to discuss issues, including supply chains, maritime security and climate change.

As per reports, the MQ-9B drone can fly for about 48 hours and carry a payload of about 1,700 kilograms (3,700 pounds).

GTV