The United States State Department officially communicated its endorsement to the U.S. Congress on Thursday regarding the sanction of the sale of 31 MQ-9B Drones and associated military apparatus to India, with an estimated value of $3.99 billion. This approval came despite nominal opposition from certain lawmakers who, as per reports, insisted on New Delhi conducting a “meaningful investigation” into the alleged conspiracy to eliminate Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun before endorsing the transaction. Contrary to initial claims of a potential impediment posed by some lawmakers, including Indian-American legislators, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) promptly delivered the requisite certification to Congress on Thursday, just a day after the purported hiccup.
Acknowledging the consultative process with Congress members as routine, U.S. officials emphasized that this proposed sale aligns with the nation’s foreign policy and national security objectives. The DSCA asserted that the sale would fortify the U.S.-Indian strategic relationship, contributing to the security of a vital defense partner pivotal for political stability, peace, and economic advancement in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia region.
Highlighting the significance of the sale, the DSCA stated, “The proposed sale will enhance India’s capability to address prevailing and future threats through the facilitation of unmanned surveillance and reconnaissance patrols in sea lanes of operation. India’s commitment to modernizing its military assures the seamless integration of these articles and services into its armed forces.”
Contrary to speculations about a potential hold on the sale due to the Pannun issue, both New Delhi and Washington expressed skepticism. In these capitals, support for the U.S.-India military and defense relationship eclipses relatively minor concerns. Notably, the two nations previously navigated a more substantial challenge when India proceeded with the purchase of S-400 Triumf air defense systems from Russia, a $5.43 billion deal inked in 2018, despite reservations in the U.S. Congress and the executive branch.
Indian officials maintained optimism about the sale progressing smoothly, underscoring their respect for the processes and procedures in Washington. The transaction serves several strategic objectives, foremost among them being the U.S. aspiration to position India as a counterbalance to China, particularly amid escalating tensions in the Gulf, where India already plays a significant role in safeguarding international shipping lanes and systems.
Economic considerations also come into play, particularly concerning General Atomics, the primary contractor based in California. The substantial congressional delegation from this state is unlikely to overlook the economic benefits for their constituents.
The Indian Defense Ministry issued a detailed Letter of Request (LoR) for the 31 ‘hunter-killer’ remotely-piloted aircraft systems, along with their weapons packages, mobile ground control systems, and additional equipment just before the Biden-Modi meeting on September 8 during the G-20 summit. Following the notification to the U.S. Congress, the Biden administration is expected to issue the Letter of Acceptance (LoA) to India within the next month. Subsequent to final cost negotiations and the requisite approval from the Indian Cabinet Committee on Security, the formal contract will be executed.
The Indian Armed Forces have long sought such armed high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) drones. The Defense Ministry granted initial approval (AoN) for the acquisition of the 31 MQ-9Bs, including 15 Sea Guardians for the Navy and 16 Sky Guardians for the Army and Air Force, on June 15 of the previous year. General Atomics will assemble these drones in India over the next six to seven years. Additionally, the proposed deal includes the establishment of a cost-effective and comprehensive global Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul (MRO) facility in India, along with sourcing some components from Indian companies.
Outclassing the armed drones possessed by China, such as the Cai Hong-4 and Wing Loong-II, the MQ-9Bs will significantly enhance India’s long-range surveillance and precision strike capabilities in both the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and the land frontiers shared with China and Pakistan. These fighter-sized MQ-9B drones boast a design allowing them to fly for approximately 40 hours at altitudes exceeding 40,000 feet, facilitating over-the-horizon Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Armed with Hellfire air-to-ground missiles and smart bombs, they provide precision capabilities for strikes.