Asia Press Agency

Tag: US-India Relations

  • US Approves Sale of 31 MQ-9B Drones to India

    US Approves Sale of 31 MQ-9B Drones to India

    The United States has approved the sale of 31 MQ-9B armed drones to India, marking a significant milestone in bilateral defense cooperation. The acquisition, estimated at USD 3.99 billion, will enhance India’s surveillance capabilities and bolster its ability to address current and future security challenges, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and in the maritime domain.

     

    The proposed sale, announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic State Visit to the United States in June 2023, underscores the deepening strategic relationship between the two countries. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of the potential sale, emphasizing its importance in strengthening the US-Indian strategic partnership and enhancing security in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia region.

     

    The MQ-9B Remotely Piloted Aircraft will enable India to conduct unmanned surveillance and reconnaissance patrols, enhancing its maritime domain awareness and maritime security capabilities. The proposed acquisition includes 15 SeaGuardian drones for the Navy and eight SkyGuardian drones each for the Army and the Indian Air Force.

     

    General Atomics Aeronautical Systems will serve as the principal contractor for the sale, and the DSCA has expressed confidence in India’s ability to absorb these advanced capabilities into its armed forces without altering the regional military balance.

     

    While the sale is subject to US Congressional approval, both American and Indian officials have been engaged in negotiations to facilitate the procurement process. The MQ-9B drones offer long-endurance capabilities, capable of remaining airborne for over 35 hours and carrying out a variety of missions, including maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and over-the-horizon targeting.

     

    The proposed acquisition aligns with India’s commitment to modernizing its military and enhancing its defense capabilities. It builds upon previous defense cooperation initiatives between the US and India, demonstrating the mutual commitment to advancing shared security interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

     

    The MQ-9B drones will play a crucial role in India’s efforts to safeguard its territorial integrity and maritime interests, contributing to regional stability and security. As both countries work towards finalizing the sale, the acquisition of these advanced unmanned aerial vehicles represents a significant milestone in the strategic partnership between the United States and India.

  • US Secretary of State Applauds India’s Success Story

    US Secretary of State Applauds India’s Success Story

    United States Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, expressed admiration for India’s achievements, characterizing the nation as an “extraordinary success story” under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Blinken, speaking at the World Economic Forum, noted that the policies and programs initiated by PM Modi have significantly benefited the Indian people and strengthened relationships with various ally countries.

     

    “We see an extraordinary success story, and we see the remarkable achievements that Prime Minister Modi has achieved moving forward under his watch that have materially benefited and positively affected so many of the allies,” stated Secretary Blinken.

     

    Blinken acknowledged the positive impact of Prime Minister Modi’s policies, emphasizing the tangible benefits experienced by the people of India. In response to a question regarding concerns about the rise of Hindu nationalism, Blinken underscored the robust economic growth and infrastructure development witnessed under the Modi regime.

     

    The Secretary of State highlighted the excellent relations between US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Modi. He emphasized that their conversations cover a wide range of aspects and consistently underscore the importance of democracy and human rights in the bilateral relationship.

     

    “We also see our relationship between our countries that is in a new place at a new level. That’s been a very deliberate effort by both the Prime Minister and President Biden. At the same time, a constant and regular part of our conversation is the conversation about democracy and about human rights,” Blinken remarked.

     

    Blinken indicated that President Biden, upon taking office, prioritized incorporating considerations of democracy and human rights into foreign policy. He highlighted that such discussions contribute to positive changes and advancements in the relationship between the two countries.

     

    In addition to praising India’s success, Blinken commented on the recent presidential elections in Taiwan. He reaffirmed the United States’ support for the status quo of the island nation and commended Taiwan’s powerful affirmation of democracy.

     

    “We see a very powerful affirmation of democracy. We congratulated the people of Taiwan. Our fundamental interest is the peace and stability is maintained,” Blinken said.

     

    Addressing the Taiwan issue, Blinken emphasized the historical success in managing the matter and maintaining the status quo since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the United States and China.

     

    The Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum serves as a platform for global leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to exchange ideas and perspectives on critical global issues. Secretary Blinken’s positive remarks about India and its leadership underscore the importance of the bilateral relationship between the United States and India on the international stage.