US to sell armed drones to India for $4bn 

The US State Department has backed the possible sale of 31 armed drones, missiles, and other supplies to India for around $4bn (£3.14bn).
The US State Department has backed the possible sale of 31 armed drones, missiles, and other supplies to India for around $4bn (£3.14bn).

The US State Department has backed the possible sale of 31 armed drones, missiles, and other supplies to India for around $4bn (£3.14bn).

Introduction:

The United States has decided to proceed with the sale of MQ-9B Predator drones to India after resolving a dispute related to an alleged Indian assassination plot on US soil. 

The deal, initially announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the US in June 2023, includes the sale of 31 armed MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones, along with missiles, bombs, and communication and surveillance equipment. 

The agreement had been put on hold in December by a Senate committee pending an investigation into the alleged assassination plot.

Resolution of Investigation Dispute:

The deal faced a delay as Senator Ben Cardin had placed a “hold” on it, seeking a thorough investigation into the alleged Indian assassination plot involving a US citizen advocating for Khalistan. 

The US government agreed to conduct a full investigation, leading to the resolution of the dispute. Senator Cardin stated that the Biden administration demanded accountability in both the US and India regarding the alleged activities.

Details of the Drone Deal:

The drone deal with India, now set to proceed after approval from the US Congress, includes the sale of 31 MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones, 170 AGM-114R Hellfire missiles, 310 laser small diameter bombs, communications and surveillance equipment, and a precision glide bomb. 

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems will be the principal contractor for the deal. 

The Pentagon emphasized that the proposed drone deal will strengthen the US-Indian strategic relationship and align with the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States.

Background on Alleged Assassination Plot:

Last year, the US accused India of plotting to assassinate an American citizen advocating for Khalistan, leading to concerns and a delay in the drone deal. 

India’s foreign ministry denied any involvement in the alleged murder plot and formed a high-level inquiry committee to investigate the allegations and address US government security concerns.

Conclusion:

The resolution of the investigation dispute clears the way for the US to proceed with the sale of armed drones to India, contributing to the strengthening of the US-Indian strategic relationship. 

The drone deal represents a significant aspect of defense cooperation between the two countries and underscores the importance of resolving diplomatic challenges for the successful execution of such agreements.

Gary Monroe

Gary Monroe is a seasoned contributor to the Los Angeles Business Magazine, where he offers insightful analysis on local business trends and economic developments. With a focus on Los Angeles' dynamic commercial landscape, Gary's articles provide valuable perspectives for entrepreneurs and business professionals in the city.

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