Indian Navy’s Predator Drones Secure the Seas: A Glimpse into Their Expanding Role

Indian Navy's Predator Drones Secure the Seas: A Glimpse into Their Expanding Role

VoM News Desk | September 26, 2023 | 06:22 PM IST | Breaking News, Security | Follow on Google News

Indian Navy’s Predator Drones Secure the Seas: A Glimpse into Their Expanding Role

13,000 Hours of Vigilance Over the Indian Ocean

The Indian Navy’s Predator drones, stationed at INS Rajali Naval Air Base, have soared above the Indian Ocean Region, amassing over 13,000 hours of vital missions. These drones play a crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s interests by maintaining constant surveillance in the region.

A Lease Agreement with General Atomics

In November 2020, the Indian Navy procured two Predator drones from the American firm General Atomics under emergency procurement powers. These drones offer impressive capabilities, capable of covering distances spanning 4,000 to 8,000 kilometers in a single flight and sustaining operations for more than 30 hours uninterrupted, enabling comprehensive coverage of the entire Indian Ocean Region.

Unveiling the Predator’s Capabilities

During our investigation, Team ANI witnessed firsthand the exceptional capabilities of these advanced drones. The Predator drones showcased their prowess in surveillance and reconnaissance, making them invaluable assets to the Indian Navy.

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Next-Generation Predator MQ-9B Drones

Looking ahead, the Indian Navy is set to receive 15 more advanced Predator MQ-9B drones under a tri-services deal with the United States. These drones will be equipped with a formidable arsenal, including air-to-ground missiles, bombs, and submarine detection kits with sonobuoys for uncovering hidden enemy submarines.

Lethal Firepower and Precision

The Predator drones can be armed with American Hellfire missiles, bombs, and cutting-edge sensors, enabling precision strikes against distant enemy targets. Their effectiveness is exemplified by the extensive use of drones by American forces in targeting high-profile terrorists like al-Qaeda’s Ayman al-Zawahiri.

India’s Ambitious Drone Procurement Plan

India’s armed forces are on track to acquire a total of 31 drones, following an announcement during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States. The Indian Ministry of Defence has submitted a Letter of Request to the U.S. government for the drones, and negotiations for the commercial aspect are set to begin. The total package is valued at USD 3.1 billion, with the Navy acquiring 15 drones, and the Army and Air Force receiving 8 each.

Strategic Deployment in Ladakh

Lieutenant Commander Lokesh emphasized the strategic significance of deploying drones in regions like Ladakh. These unmanned aircraft offer real-time, high-altitude battlefield situational awareness, providing invaluable information to top commanders based in Delhi.

Surveillance in the Indian Ocean

The Predator drones have proven their mettle by identifying and monitoring the movements of Chinese warships and research/fishing vessels in the Indian Ocean near the Sunda Strait. Their surveillance capabilities are instrumental in safeguarding India’s maritime interests.

Training for Future Operations

Recognizing the growing importance of drones, the Indian Navy has intensified efforts to train more officers and sailors in drone operations. This training will ensure that these drones remain poised for action as part of the contractor-owned contractor-operated deal.

VoM News Desk

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