CCS clears deals for 31 MQ-9B drones and submarines

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CategoryDefence

Last Updated11/10/2024

The proposal for two SSNs to be built indigenously was cleared by the CCS as well as the deal for 31 MQ-9B HALE UAVs which is for the three services.

On October 9, 2024, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved two significant defence acquisitions: the purchase of 31 MQ-9B High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) from the U.S. and the indigenous construction of two Nuclear Attack Submarines (SSNs). These developments mark a critical step in strengthening India's defense capabilities.

The deal for the 31 MQ-9B UAVs, manufactured by General Atomics, was approved for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. The purchase includes 15 Sea Guardians for the Navy and 16 Sky Guardians—eight each for the Army and Air Force. The total deal is valued at $3.99 billion.

As part of the deal, General Atomics will establish a Global Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India, contributing to offset obligations. This move is seen as a boost to India's efforts to develop indigenous defense capabilities and support infrastructure.

SSN Project:
The CCS also approved the indigenous construction of two Nuclear Attack Submarines (SSNs), marking a significant expansion of India’s underwater warfare capabilities.
These submarines, once operational, will provide unlimited endurance for a variety of naval operations, only constrained by the crew's endurance. This project follows India's success in building nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs), with INS Arighaat joining INS Arihant as part of India's strategic deterrence fleet.

India has previously leased SSNs from Russia, with a third leased submarine expected to join the fleet in the coming years. This indigenous SSN project is expected to build on these experiences, further enhancing the Indian Navy's operational capabilities.
Pending U.S. Defence Deals:
Another pending deal with the U.S. involves the local manufacture of General Electric (GE) F414 jet engines by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). These engines are critical for the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)-Mk1A. The progress of this deal, as well as the UAV acquisition, was discussed during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's visit to the U.S. in August 2024.