India-US Sign Mega Deal For Predator Drones

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In a big boost to the armed forces, India has signed a $3.5 billion deal with the United States to acquire 31 MQ-9B Predator drones

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The Indian Navy is likely to get 15 of the drones - the 'SeaGuardian' variant

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The Army and the Air Force will be allotted eight 'SkyGuardian' Predator drones each

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The MQ-9B Predator drone is a variant of the MQ-9 'Reaper' developed by GA-ASI

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It is categorised as a high-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)

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The drone can fly for 40 hours at a time at altitudes over 40,000 feet. It has an external payload capacity of 2,155 kg

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Apart from its surveillance capabilities, the MQ-9B is armed with strike missiles, allowing it to hit targets with high precision

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It is capable of automatic take-offs and landings, and can safely integrate into civil airspace

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