NewKerala.com

India-US Near $3B P-8I Aircraft Deal to Boost Navy's Anti-Submarine Capabilities

India and the United States are advancing toward a significant $3 billion defense agreement for six P-8I anti-submarine warfare aircraft. The deal, pending final clearances from the Defence Ministry and Cabinet Committee on Security, aims to enhance the Indian Navy's maritime surveillance capabilities. These aircraft are crucial for monitoring activities in India's areas of responsibility, particularly concerning China and Pakistan. This acquisition complements other planned inductions, including MQ-9 Sea Guardian drones, to significantly boost India's unmanned and manned surveillance fleet.

Key Points: India-US $3B P-8I Deal for Anti-Submarine Warfare Aircraft

  • $3 billion deal for six P-8I aircraft
  • Boosts anti-submarine and maritime surveillance
  • Strengthens monitoring of Chinese, Pakistani activities
  • Part of broader unmanned drone induction plan
2 min read

India, US near deal for $3 billion P-8I anti-submarine warfare aircraft amid improving ties

India and the US are finalizing a $3 billion deal for six P-8I aircraft to boost the Indian Navy's surveillance against Chinese and Pakistani activities.

"P-8I is the mainstay of the Indian Navy's surveillance platforms - Defence sources"

New Delhi, February 4

Amid improving ties after the trade deal, India and the US are moving closer towards signing the around USD 3 billion deal for buying six P-8I anti-submarine warfare and maritime surveillance aircraft for boosting the capabilities of the Indian Navy to keep an eye on its areas of responsibility.

The Indian Navy already has a fleet of 12 P-8I maritime surveillance aircraft based at Arakonam and Goa, from where they monitor areas along the eastern and western seaboards.

The proposal to buy the six new P-8I aircraft is expected to be taken up for clearance by the Defence Ministry in the near future, after which it would require a clearance by the Cabinet Committee on Security, Defence sources told ANI.

The Indian Navy's proposal to buy six new P-8I aircraft has been under discussion for a long time, but negotiations have been stalled due to price issues, they said.

P-8I is the mainstay of the Indian Navy's surveillance platforms and will be used to strengthen its capabilities to monitor Chinese and Pakistani activities in the maritime zone.

The Indian Navy is also set to receive a boost in its unmanned surveillance capabilities with the induction of 15 MQ-9 Sea Guardian high-altitude, long-endurance surveillance drones, which are expected to begin arriving in 2029.

The Indian defence forces are also boosting their surveillance capabilities with the induction of 87 Medium Altitude Long Endurance drones; a significant number will be inducted into the Indian Navy.

- ANI

Share this article:

Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone living in Chennai near the coast, this news is reassuring. Our fishermen often report suspicious vessels. Better surveillance means safer seas for everyone. Good move.
R
Rohit P
$3 billion is a huge amount. While security is paramount, I hope there is complete transparency in the deal and we are getting the best possible technology for our money. Make in India should also be a part of such long-term procurements.
A
Ananya R
Strengthening ties with the US is good, but we must ensure our strategic autonomy isn't compromised. The P-8I is a proven platform though. The drones in 2029 will be a game-changer too! 👏
K
Karthik V
Our Navy deserves the best equipment. The existing P-8Is have done a fantastic job monitoring both the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal. Adding six more will significantly boost our patrol capabilities. Well done!
M
Michael C
Interesting to see the defense partnership deepening. The P-8 is a top-tier asset. Hope the deal includes substantial technology transfer and maintenance support to build local expertise in India.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50