India Finalizes $3.5B Deal with U.S. for 31 MQ-9B Armed Drones

India and the United States have concluded a $3.5 billion deal for the procurement of 31 MQ-9B High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) armed drones, manufactured by General Atomics.

At approximately $110 million per weaponized unit, this is one of the most expensive and comprehensive drone packages ever exported by the U.S.

The agreement was signed on October 15, following approval by India’s Cabinet Committee on Security.

Under the deal, the Indian Navy will receive 15 Sea Guardian drones, while the Indian Army and Air Force will each get eight Sky Guardian drones. These UAVs will enhance India's Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities, especially in the Indian Ocean Region.

The contract also includes the delivery of 170 AGM-114R Hellfire missiles, 310 laser-guided Small Diameter Bombs (SDB), and other advanced weapons. General Atomics will establish a Global Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India as part of the deal.

India has been operating leased MQ-9A drones since 2020, which have been utilized for maritime surveillance and anti-submarine warfare roles.

In February 2024, the U.S. approved the $3.99 billion sale of 31 MQ-9B drones, including weapons, equipment, and support.