U.S. Firm Replaces Indian Navy Drone That Crashed Into The Bay Of Bengal

US-based General Atomics has replaced the MQ-9B SeaGuardian remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) that crashed into the Bay of Bengal on September 18, 2023, under the lease agreement with the Indian Navy.

The crash occurred due to a power failure, and the high-altitude long-endurance drone was written off. The replacement drone is now being used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), military sources revealed.

The Indian Navy had leased two MQ-9B drones from General Atomics in 2020, and the lease was extended later. These drones are based at the Naval Air Station Rajali in Tamil Nadu, and they have been essential for keeping a close watch on the IOR.

The RPAs have accumulated over 18,000 flying hours, and their role is particularly critical as the Indian Navy steps up surveillance in the region to monitor China’s growing presence.

The leased MQ-9B drones are capable of remaining airborne for over 35 hours and can carry up to four Hellfire missiles and 450 kgs of bombs.

The replacement drone was sent by General Atomics to fulfil its contractual obligations. Along with the replacement, India is set to receive 31 MQ-9B Sea/SkyGuardian drones from the US in a $3.5 billion deal.

The delivery of…

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