Concerns emerge over arms race as India inks major drone deal with the US
New Delhi: In a move that underscores India’s growing military ambitions, India has finalized a massive $3.3 billion agreement with the United States for the acquisition of 31 Predator MQ-9B High Altitude Long Endurance drones.
According to Kashmir Media Service, this deal, which includes the establishment of a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India, raises significant concerns about regional stability and the potential for an arms race.
Signed in the presence of senior defense officials today, the agreement comes after years of negotiations and was expedited to meet a tight deadline. The Indian Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved the deal just last week, as the American proposal was set to expire on October 31.
With 15 drones designated for the Indian Navy and the rest divided between the Indian Air Force and the Army, this tri-service acquisition reflects a clear intent to bolster India’s military capabilities. The drones will be stationed at strategic locations, including INS Rajali near Chennai, Porbandar in Gujarat, Sarsawa, and Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh.
Critics contend that this significant arms procurement aligns more with India’s jingoistic aspirations than genuine security needs. By heavily investing in advanced military technology, India risks escalating existing geopolitical tensions and provoking an arms race in South Asia. Such moves undermine prospects for peaceful dialogue and coexistence, setting a troubling precedent for military expansion in the region.
