India 

India enhances border surveillance with MQ-9B Predator drones, deploying them at air bases in Uttar Pradesh to bolster defense capabilities along the Line of Actual Control with China. The USD 4 billion deal includes 31 drones, with provisions for technology transfer and indigenization, empowering India with advanced reconnaissance capabilities.

In a strategic move aimed at enhancing India's surveillance capabilities along its border with China, the Indian Army and Air Force are gearing up to deploy MQ-9B Predator drones. These drones, set to be stationed at air bases in Sarsawa and Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh, signify a significant upgrade in India's defense infrastructure.

The drone deal, valued at approximately USD 4 billion, is being negotiated at a tri-services level, with the Indian Navy taking the lead in discussions with the United States. Under this agreement, 31 MQ-9B drones are slated for acquisition, with 15 earmarked for maritime surveillance by the Indian Navy.

One notable aspect of the MQ-9B drones is their requirement for a substantial runway length for takeoff and landing, a prerequisite readily met by the Indian Air Force's airbases. Hence, the decision to deploy Army drones alongside the IAF at these selected bases.

Each of the armed forces—the Army and the Air Force—will be allocated eight MQ-9B drones, substantially bolstering India's reconnaissance capabilities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, spanning from Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh. This addition, coupled with existing assets, promises comprehensive coverage of critical areas along the LAC.

The acquisition agreement with the United States not only entails the procurement of drones but also includes provisions for indigenization of parts and weapons, a move aimed at enhancing India's self-reliance in defense technology. Additionally, the agreement provides for the transfer of technology to Indian entities, further bolstering indigenous capabilities.

With a remarkable flight endurance exceeding 36 hours and an operational ceiling of over 40,000 feet, the MQ-9B drones offer unparalleled surveillance capabilities. Equipped with Hellfire air-to-ground missiles and smart bombs, these drones specialize in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, empowering Indian defense forces with real-time situational awareness.

The deployment of MQ-9B Predator drones is poised to significantly augment India's surveillance efforts not only along its land borders with China and Pakistan but also in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). These drones have already proven their efficacy in monitoring anti-piracy operations, providing crucial insights into activities unfolding thousands of kilometers from Indian shores.

In essence, the acquisition of MQ-9B Predator drones marks a pivotal step towards strengthening India's defense apparatus, ensuring enhanced vigilance and preparedness in safeguarding national security interests.