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| Predator-C Avenger (Image: Wikipedia) |
by Neelam Mathews and Chris Pocock
India’s likely accession to the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) next month may clear the way for acquisition of armed Predator C jet-powered UAVs made by California-based General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc (GA-ASI). The country first expressed interest in the drone, also named Avenger by California-based GA-ASI, last September. India has also made inquiries about the Predator XP, but this export version is licensed only for surveillance.
“MTCR was the first step. Now things can be discussed. The U.S. Foreign Military Sales process is lengthy and it has to be also cleared by the U.S. Congress,” an Indian defense ministry official told AIN. The MTCR is supposed to prevent the proliferation of unmanned nuclear weapons delivery systems capable of carrying a 500 kg (1,100-pound) payload for at least 300 km (186 miles). The jet-powered Predator can carry a payload of up to 6,500 pounds and has a range of 1,800 miles, flying at up to 50,000 feet.
While initially India’s requirement was for approximately 100 Avengers, the official said this could go up to 250 if the Indian Navy decides to change the design of the catapult launch system on its second indigenous aircraft carrier, making Avengers the natural choice. General Atomics Electro Magnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) technology was offered to India under a cooperation agreement on aircraft carrier technologies as part of six “path-finder” projects under the Defense Technology and Trade Initiative during President Barack Obama’s visit in January last year.
Read the full story at AINonline