India Plans $3 Billion Deal with U.S. for 6 P-8I Maritime Surveillance Aircraft
India is set to sign a $3 billion deal with the United States to acquire six P-8I maritime surveillance aircraft, boosting the Indian Navy’s long-range reconnaissance and maritime security capabilities.
Prasanth Subramani
India is planning to strengthen its naval surveillance capabilities by procuring six Boeing P-8I Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft from the United States. The proposed deal is estimated to be worth around $3 billion and is expected to be finalized soon, according to sources.
The P-8I aircraft, specifically customized for the Indian Navy, are used for long-range maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and intelligence gathering. The addition of six more aircraft is expected to significantly enhance India’s ability to monitor strategic waters and boost maritime security in the region.
India already operates a fleet of P-8I aircraft, which play a crucial role in tracking submarines and conducting reconnaissance missions across the Indian Ocean. The new deal reflects growing defence cooperation between India and the United States and India’s continued focus on strengthening naval preparedness.
