CCSof India has approved the purchase of 31 MQ-9B High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) drones from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., and greenlit the indigenous construction of two Nuclear Attack Submarines (SSNs) as part of two high-profile defense deals.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) gave the final nod to the acquisition of the MQ-9B drones and the submarine project, two official sources confirmed. The drone deal, estimated at $3.99 billion, includes 15 Sea Guardians for the Indian Navy and 16 Sky Guardians, with eight each allocated to the Indian Army and Air Force.
The MQ-9B HALE UAVs will bolster India's defense capabilities across all three services, and the agreement also includes provisions for General Atomics to establish a Global Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India, contributing to the country’s offset obligations.
Strengthening Defense Capabilities
In addition to the drone purchase, India’s focus on indigenous submarine production is seen as a significant move to enhance its naval capabilities. The construction of two SSNs will follow the success of India’s existing nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBN), with INS Arighaat joining the fleet recently alongside INS Arihant, which was commissioned in 2016.
The SSNs are viewed as a strategic asset for the Indian Navy, providing enhanced endurance and operational flexibility, crucial for carrying out long-duration missions. India has previously leased SSNs from Russia, and a third leased submarine is expected to enter service within the next 2-3 years.
Pending Deals with the U.S.
While the MQ-9B drone deal awaits formal conclusion, the proposed local manufacture of General Electric (GE) F414 jet engines by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)-Mk1A remains a significant pending defense agreement. The delays in finalizing the jet engine deal were a topic of discussion during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to the U.S. in August.
Strategic Significance
India’s decision to acquire the MQ-9B drones and develop nuclear-powered submarines is seen as a strategic step to bolster its defense posture amid evolving security challenges in the region. The deals also signify the strengthening of India's defense ties with the U.S., with General Atomics’ commitment to setting up the MRO facility in India marking a significant step toward enhancing local defense manufacturing capabilities.
The recent moves align with India’s broader strategy to increase indigenous production in its defense sector, aiming to reduce dependency on foreign suppliers and enhance its self-reliance.
The approval of these deals comes as India continues to expand its defense capabilities in partnership with international allies, with a focus on meeting its strategic requirements for national security.
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