India gets super-drones to watch the Indian Ocean | MQ-9Bs to track China at sea
Edited By WION Video Desk
Published: Aug 18, 2026, 23:16 IST | Updated: Aug 18, 2026, 23:16 IST
India is leasing two MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones from the United States for $203 million over 30 months, giving the Indian Navy additional persistent surveillance capability while it waits for its larger MQ-9B fleet. Speaking to Wion, Air Marshal Anil Khosla (retired), Former The Vice Chief of the Air Staff, Indian Air Force explains the strategic importance of MQ-9B. The drones are designed for long-endurance maritime surveillance, with the ability to remain airborne for more than 30 hours and use advanced sensors to monitor ships and other targets over large distances.
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