US State Dept Approves USD 4 billion sale of 31 MQ-9B Armed Drones

Current Context: The US State Department has approved the sale of 31 MQ-9B armed drones to India for nearly $4 billion on 1st February 2024.

• This decision underscores the deepening strategic partnership between India and the United States.
• The MQ-9B SkyGuardian is a remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS), created to assist in gathering intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) around the globe.
• The acquisition will significantly enhance India’s capacity to address present and future threats by facilitating unmanned surveillance and reconnaissance patrols in maritime zones.
• This decision follows the Defense Security Cooperation Agency’s formal notification to Congress, signalling a pivotal step towards finalising one of the most high-profile defence transactions between the two nations.

Question:

Q.1 What is the MQ-9B SkyGuardian?
a. A manned fighter jet
b. A remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS)
c. A submarine
d. A satellite