The Biden administration is keen on inking this deal as soon as possible, which will create jobs and would be politically beneficial ahead of the next year's presidential elections, according to a source.
The MQ-9B predator armed drones is seen to be a key part of India's national security and defense needs.
Washington: India and the United States are
pushing for the early completion of a 30 MQ-9B predator armed drone deal valued
at over $3 billion. This acquisition will help India boost its surveillance
capabilities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and in the Indian Ocean.
The MQ-9B predator armed drones, 10 each for three services, is considered a
crucial aspect of India's national security and defense requirements.
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Sources familiar with the development stated that the "ball is now in India's court," however,
they did not provide further information. The officials dismissed the possibility of bureaucratic hurdles or regulatory issues being involved. The deal, which was announced in the summer of 2017, has been delayed for an unknown reason, although it is believed that the issues were addressed during meetings between the National Security Advisor Ajit K Doval and top America leadership.
Both India and the United States are eager to expedite the drone deal, with India hoping for an early delivery of the MQ-9B predator armed drones to enhance its national security and surveillance. The Biden administration is eager to sign the deal quickly, which will create jobs and be politically beneficial before the next year's presidential elections, according to those familiar with the situation. Vivek Lall, the CEO of General Atomics Global Corporation, stated that the MQ-9B would allow Indian military users to fly farther, stay in the air for longer periods of time, and handle a wider range of missions compared to other similar aircraft. The SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian can provide full-motion video in any weather conditions, day or night, as well as other types of detailed sensing with their onboard systems. The aircraft can also carry a variety of specialist payloads, including communications relays and other intelligence, surveillance, or military systems.
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Artificial intelligence, machine learning, and other advanced technologies help unlock the wealth of information from these aircraft, analyze it, and distribute it to those who need it to make prompt decisions. The MQ-9B is considered the premier multi-role, long-endurance remotely piloted aircraft in the world today, in high demand by countries such as Japan, Belgium, Great Britain, and others. Assistant Secretary of State for Political Military Affairs Jessica Lewis noted that the India-US defense relationship has gained momentum in recent years and is a topic of rich conversation during the iCET dialogue. Lewis stated that the relationship between the defense department and the Ministry of Defense is strong and that both sides are committed to continuing and growing the relationship.