By Admin 
The defense cooperation between India and the United States is about to achieve a new dimension amidst the tariff threats of US President Donald Trump. The deal of 6 additional P-8i Maritime Petrol Aircraft for the Indian Navy between the two countries is almost fixed. This deal is about 4 billion dollars. For this, a delegation of America will reach Delhi from September 16 to 19.
Important role of US delegation
This delegation will include officers of US Department of Defense and Boeing. In addition, officials of the Office of Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, Navy International Program Office (NIPO), Maritime Petrol and Recognition Aircraft Program Office (PMA 290) and Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) will also participate in it. NIPO handles global maritime partnerships while PMA is helpful in 290 aircraft acquisition and support.
Indian Navy’s growing requirements
The Indian Navy currently has 12 P-8i aircraft. In view of China’s growing military influence in the Indian Ocean Region, the Navy needs 6 more aircraft to strengthen its surveillance and anti-Sabarine capacity. Apart from this, the Navy is also using MQ-9B drone, which will provide a total of 31 drones by 2029.
Technical characteristics and strategic importance
According to India Today report, P-8i aircraft are capable of long distance monitoring and detection of submarines. It can fly from a height of 41,000 feet and can cover a distance of up to 8,300 kilometers. It can also carry anti-ship missiles, cruise missiles, light torpedo and anti-sabmerine warfare charge. The MQ-9B drone will be helpful in the real-time surveillance of the Indian Ocean Region.
Indo-US relations are not affected
Recently, the high tariff imposed by the US on India for buying oil from Russia has not affected this defense agreement. In February, a joint statement released during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to America was clear that the deal is in the final stages.