During the Quad Summit in Delaware, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden solidified key aspects of the India-US defense relationship, particularly focusing on the MQ-9B drone deal. The United States had previously approved the sale of 31 MQ-9B drones to India, valued at approximately $3.99 billion. This deal is set to enhance India’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities.
The leaders highlighted the progress made in their defense partnership, including cooperation in areas such as jet engine co-production, ground mobility systems, and munitions. Additionally, they acknowledged India’s growing role in the global semiconductor supply chain, driven by the upcoming GlobalFoundries plant in Kolkata.
Further collaboration was announced in cutting-edge fields like space, cybersecurity, and maritime domain awareness, with both countries committing to deepen their strategic and defense ties. The MQ-9B drones, including 16 Sky Guardian and 15 Sea Guardian variants, will play a pivotal role in strengthening India’s defense capabilities across multiple domains.
This meeting reflects the expanding India-US partnership, fostering innovation and cooperation in defense, technology, and manufacturing, marking a new chapter in bilateral relations.
