MQ-9B PREDATOR - DEFENCE
AND SECURITY
News: India to strategically place
'hunter-killer' Predator drones from US in UP, Tamil Nadu
What's in the news?
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Recently, the Defence Ministry approved the
procurement of 30 MQ-9B Predator drones (SeaGuardian variant) from the US to
bolster the surveillance capabilities of the armed forces.
MQ-9B Predator:
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The MQ-9B Predator is a high-altitude, long-endurance armed Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)
developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI).
Key Features:
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It is a variant of the MQ-9 "Reaper"
primarily designed for the United States
Air Force (USAF).
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Used for surveillance, intelligence gathering, and
airstrikes by the United States.
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The MQ-9B drone includes two variants - Sky Guardian and Sea Guardian, the
latter being utilized by the Indian Navy from 2020.
Technical
Specifications:
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Payload capacity of up to 5,670 kg and a fuel capacity of 2,721 kg.
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Capable of operating at altitudes exceeding 40,000
feet.
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Can fly as close as 250 metres from the ground
without detection.
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Maximum endurance of 40 hours, providing prolonged surveillance
capabilities.
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Top speed of 275 mph (442 km/h).
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Armed with strike missiles, including four Hellfire
missiles and around 450 kg of bombs.
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Capable of automatic take-offs and landings for
operational flexibility.
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Can integrate
into civil airspace, offering real-time situational awareness for joint forces
and civil authorities.
Applications:
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Land and maritime surveillance
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Anti-submarine warfare
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Anti-surface warfare
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Electronic warfare
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Expeditionary missions