Big Win For Modi Govt as US Sends Letter of Acceptance For MQ9B Predator Drones Deal With India

Last Updated: March 15, 2024, 10:18 IST

Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

The United States has officially approved the sale of MQ9B Predator drones to India, in a development that will bolster the country’s defence capabilities. The decision, which comes ahead of general elections, was communicated through a letter of acceptance sent to the Defence Ministry earlier this week.

This move signals a major win for the Narendra Modi government, as the deal for the acquisition of 31 Predator drones underlines the deepening strategic partnership between India and the US, despite ongoing chatter surrounding the death probe of Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

Originally cleared in February, the drone deal faced a brief delay due to objections raised by US senators. However, following the 30-day objection period, the final draft of acceptance was sent to New Delhi. The approval by the US Congress represents a crucial step forward for the sale of 31 MQ9B drones to India. Top government sources said that the decision was conveyed to the manufacturer General Atomics by the US State Department.

The Indian Navy stands to benefit significantly from this arrangement, with nearly half of the acquired drones slated for naval use. These drones, integral to India’s security framework, are set to provide a substantial boost to the nation’s naval operations. The clearance of this deal, originally announced during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the US last year, comes amid speculations regarding its fate in light of the Punnun probe. However, government sources have downplayed any potential impact, underlining the overriding importance of defence and security ties between the two countries.