India is reportedly on the verge of finalizing a significant deal to acquire 31 MQ-9B Predator armed drones from the United States through a government-to-government arrangement. According to sources familiar with the matter, the U.S. Congress is anticipated to approve the supplies in the coming weeks. The final round of negotiations between American and Indian government officials will take place after the U.S. responds to India's Letter of Request (LoR) for the procurement of drones from General Atomics (GA), a prominent U.S. defense company.

The purpose behind India's acquisition of these long-endurance 'hunter-killer' drones is to enhance the surveillance capabilities of its armed forces, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. While the exact cost of the drones is yet to be determined through negotiations, estimates suggest that the procurement could amount to approximately USD 3 billion.

Sources reveal that teams from New Delhi and Washington will be appointed to finalize the deal, addressing details such as cost and other intricacies. The overarching objective is to conclude the agreement by March of the upcoming year. The impending deal signifies a strategic move by India to bolster its defense capabilities and bolster surveillance in sensitive border regions.

India is reportedly on the verge of finalizing a significant deal to acquire 31 MQ-9B Predator armed drones from the United States through a government-to-government arrangement. According to sources familiar with the matter, the U.S. Congress is anticipated to approve the supplies in the coming weeks. The final round of negotiations between American and Indian government officials will take place after the U.S. responds to India's Letter of Request (LoR) for the procurement of drones from General Atomics (GA), a prominent U.S. defense company.

The purpose behind India's acquisition of these long-endurance 'hunter-killer' drones is to enhance the surveillance capabilities of its armed forces, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. While the exact cost of the drones is yet to be determined through negotiations, estimates suggest that the procurement could amount to approximately USD 3 billion.

Sources reveal that teams from New Delhi and Washington will be appointed to finalize the deal, addressing details such as cost and other intricacies. The overarching objective is to conclude the agreement by March of the upcoming year. The impending deal signifies a strategic move by India to bolster its defense capabilities and bolster surveillance in sensitive border regions.