MQ-9B Reapers are still on the cards for India’s navy
India is already leasing two Reapers, but the country’s military wants to buy many more. (Photo: GA-ASI)
As India procrastinates over its procurement decision on how many MQ-9B UAVs to buy, the Indian Navy (IN) is increasingly concerned about a big surveillance gap on its maritime borders.
The MQ-9B numbers required have bounced over the years from nine to 22, and then last year it was honed to 30. Valued at $3 billion, the platforms will be equally divided among the three forces. However, it is likely the final order could be around 20.
Meanwhile, Shephard has learned that the IN has extended its two-year lease of two unarmed Reapers until mid-2024.
Chief of Naval Staff Adm
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
Read this Article
Get access to this article with a Free Basic Account
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 1 free story per week
- Personalised news alerts
- Daily and weekly newsletters
Unlimited Access
Access to all our premium news as a Premium News 365 Member. Corporate subscriptions available.
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 14-day free trial (cancel at any time)
- Unlimited access to all published premium news
More from Air Warfare
-
GAO report reveals critical F-35 maintenance challenges impacting US fighter readiness
The US DoD is facing significant obstacles in achieving its sustainment goals for the fleet of approximately 450 F-35 fighters despite plans to expand the fleet to 2,000 over the next two decades.
-
Croatia officially receives first Dassault Rafale fighter jet
The official handover of the first Dassault Rafale B jet is a key development in a deal involving 12 aircraft for Croatia. This marks the start of a transition from Croatia's Soviet-era MiG-21 fighters and legacy aircraft.
-
Australia decides to expunge entire MRH90 helicopter fleet
Australia has decided to withdraw its MRH90 helicopter fleet, even though the aircraft had another 14 years of life left in them.
-
Czech Republic commits to F-35 jets despite Saab's 'free' Gripen lease offer
Despite Saab's attractive Gripen lease extension offer, the decision to buy the F-35 underscores the Czech Republic's commitment to the latest technology and strengthens ties with NATO allies.
-
Lockheed Martin conducts first flight of U-2 Avionics Tech Refresh programme
Lockheed Martin's Skunk Works has successfully completed the first flight of the U-2 reconnaissance aircraft Avionics Tech Refresh (ATR) programme, an effort to upgrade the type's capabilities for the future battlespace.