Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to the United States, the Indian Defence Ministry has approved the acquisition of Predator (MQ-9 Reaper) drones from America.
The final decision regarding this deal will be made by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meeting, the highest authority for acquisition decisions within the Defence Ministry, approved the deal for Predator drones.
However, the acquisition proposal must now go through a procedural process and obtain clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security, as per defence sources cited by news agency ANI.
The Indian Navy will be the primary recipient of the 15 drones, which will be utilized for surveillance operations within its jurisdiction.
Coinciding with these developments, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to visit the United States from June 21 to 24, where he will be hosted by President Joe Biden at the White House.
Notably, he would become the first Indian Prime Minister to address the US Congress Joint Session for the second time.
Indian Americans have viewed the invitation extended to Prime Minister Modi to address the US Congress as a significant symbol of the historic relationship between the two nations, highlighting their shared aspirations for global peace and prosperity, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
During his visit, Prime Minister Modi is expected to speak about the role of the Indian diaspora in the country's development.
The address will take place at an invitation-only event held at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C. on June 23.
Dr. Bharat Barai, a community leader involved in organizing the event, has confirmed that it is fully booked, with all 838 seats registered.
The Indian Navy will receive 15 drones for surveillance operations. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Modi's visit to the US holds significance as he will be the first Indian Prime Minister to address the Joint Meeting of the US Congress for the second time.
He will also speak about the Indian diaspora's role in the country's development during an event in Washington, D.C.