Biden Administration Moves Forward on India Drone Sale

US (Transatlantic Today)—The U.S. State Department has approved a $4 billion drone sale to India, marking a significant step in enhancing the U.S.-India defense relationship. The deal, which follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Washington, includes 31 MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones made by General Atomics.

This sale is part of the Biden administration’s strategy to bolster ties with India, aiming to counter China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific. In addition to the drone deal, the visit also resulted in agreements for joint fighter jet engine production and semiconductor manufacturing collaborations.

The U.S. seeks to reduce India’s reliance on Russian arms while supporting the country’s development of a self-sufficient defense industry. This deal and broader cooperation between the U.S. and India further align both nations against shared security challenges in the region.