SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.
The Indian armed forces are set to receive the MQ-9B armed High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), manufactured by General Atomics, between 2029 and 2030. This acquisition marks a major step in strengthening India’s surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike capabilities. The deal, valued at nearly $3.5 billion, was signed under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme with the U.S. government. The 31 drones ordered include 15 Sea Guardians for the Indian Navy and 16 Sky Guardians for the Indian Army and Air Force (eight each).
According to defense officials, the first MQ-9B unit will be delivered in 51 months, with the final unit expected by 72 months after the contract signing and initial payment. This indicates that the delivery window will span from January 2029 to September 2030. The deliveries will be spaced out across 21 months, ensuring that India progressively receives its fleet of 31 drones.
The HALE capability of the MQ-9B allows it to conduct long-endurance missions at high altitudes, covering vast distances over hostile or remote areas. With advanced sensors, radar systems, and electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) cameras, the drones provide real-time intelligence, critical for defense operations.
For the Navy, the Sea Guardian’s ISR capabilities will enhance maritime domain awareness in the Indian Ocean, vital for identifying and tracking enemy ships or submarines. For the Army and Air Force, the Sky Guardian will strengthen India’s border surveillance and anti-infiltration efforts along critical zones like the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan.
While the drones are primarily tasked with ISR, they are also armed platforms, capable of carrying out precision strikes. The MQ-9B can be equipped with a range of munitions, including Hellfire missiles, Paveway laser-guided bombs, and other advanced air-to-ground weaponry. This capability will allow the Indian armed forces to strike high-value targets with minimal risk to personnel.
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