New Delhi: The Cabinet Committee on Security has approved major defence contracts amounting to Rs 80,000 crore. This includes the indigenous construction of two nuclear submarines and the acquisition of 31 Predator drones from the United States. The approval is a significant advancement for India’s naval and surveillance capabilities.
The indigenous two nuclear-powered attack submarines will significantly enhance Indian Navy’s operational capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region. Reflecting a shift towards indigenous defence production, the construction of these submarines will see substantial participation from private sector firms, including Larsen and Toubro and will take place at the Ship Building Centre in Vishakhapatnam. The estimated cost of the project is around Rs 45,000 crore.
The nuclear-powered attack submarine deal has been a priority for the Indian Navy, which has emphasised the necessity of bolstering its underwater capabilities. These long pending submarines will complement the existing five nuclear submarines being developed under the Arihant class. As part of its broader strategic goals, India aims to eventually induct six such submarines with this initiative being part of the ambitious Project Advanced Technology Vessel.
Additionally, the Cabinet Committee on Security also approved the procurement of 31 MQ-9B Predator drones from American firm General Atomics. Finalised under a Foreign Military Sales agreement between India and the US, this acquisition was time-sensitive, needing approval before October 31. The signing of the contract is expected to occur in the coming days. This decision arrives at a pivotal time, especially with the upcoming US Presidential elections, highlighting the importance of the defence deal for both nations.
Bolstering India’s aerial capabilities, the procurement deal of MQ-9B Predator drones arrives at a critical juncture as China continues to advance its drone technologies and enhance its military presence in the Indian Ocean region. India’s acquisition of Predator drones represents a proactive step to secure its interests and respond effectively to regional security challenges. Valued at approximately $3.99 billion, this deal marks a transformative moment in India’s defence modernisation efforts, underscoring the growing strategic partnership between India and the US. The acquisition is expected to significantly enhance India’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities.
Capable of flying for up to 40 hours, the MQ-9B drones can strike targets on land, sea, and in the air, making them invaluable for the Indian Armed Forces. The deal includes 16 Sky Guardian and 15 Sea Guardian variants, with the Indian Navy receiving 15 drones, while the Army and Air Force will each get eight. These drones will provide real-time surveillance and conduct precision strikes in high-threat environments, crucial for maintaining regional stability.
Aiming to fortify its defence sector with domestically produced equipment, the initiative by India aligned to its ‘Make in India’ vision, may see integration of indigenous technologies developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and private sector company Solar Industries into the Predator drones.
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