India seeks Armed Drones from US Worth $ 2 Billion

In a view to strengthen its arsenal in the midst of inveterate Chinese troop invasions, India has sought the latest version of unmanned aerial vehicle, both the armed and surveillance from the United States of America. According to industry sources close to both the governments, India is seeking for near about 100 drones worth $2 billion.  

India has appealed for the latest model of Avenger drones which is an unmanned combat airborne vehicle. At the same time, the country has also sought for Predator XP category specifically Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) which will be able to provide India with world-class Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capability. It will also include both high-definition radar and Electro-optical/Infrared (EO/IR) coverage at India’s borders to combat recurring terrorist threats. Additionally, the RPA can perform humanitarian aid/disaster relief surveillance over both land and sea as well as strengthen India’s internal security system.

Sources close to New Delhi however has said that though the talks have been happening between the two countries for quite a few months now but the US has not made any formal commitment regarding India’s long quest to join the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).

MTCR is an informal and voluntary partnership among 34 countries to prevent proliferation of missiles and unmanned delivery of weapons. Membership of this group will enable India to enter into the elite decision making body of global non-proliferation community. But upset with India’s treatment of its marine troops, Italy has currently blocked India’s quest of becoming a member in MTCR.

However, both India and USA are confident that in the coming few months they would be able to surpass the last hurdle thus taking defence trade between them to the next level which would include armed drones among others.

Source: HT