India-US P8I Deal: India will get 6 additional P-8I maritime patrol aircraft. This deal is worth around $4 billion. The US delegation will visit India in September.

Defence cooperation between India and the US is about to gain a new dimension amid US President Donald Trump's tariff threats. The deal for 6 additional P-8I maritime patrol aircraft for the Indian Navy has almost been finalised between the two countries. This deal is worth about $4 billion. For this, a US delegation will reach Delhi between 16 and 19 September.

Important role of the US delegation

The delegation will include officials from the US Department of Defense and Boeing. In addition, officials from the Office of Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, Navy International Programs Office (NIPO), Maritime Patrol and Recognition Aircraft Program Office (PMA 290) and Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) will also participate. NIPO handles global maritime partnerships while PMA 290 assists in aircraft acquisition and support.

Growing needs of the Indian Navy

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-submarine capabilities. Apart from this, the Navy is also using MQ-9B drones, which will provide a total of 31 drones by 2029.

Technical features and strategic importance

P-8I aircraft are capable of long-range surveillance and submarine detection. It can fly at an altitude of 41,000 feet and cover a distance of up to 8,300 kilometers. It can also carry anti-ship missiles, cruise missiles, light torpedoes and anti-submarine warfare charges. The MQ-9B drone will be helpful in real-time surveillance of the Indian Ocean region.

No impact on India-US relations

The recent high tariff imposed by the US on India for buying oil from Russia has no impact on this defence agreement. In the joint statement issued during Prime Minister Modi's visit to the US in February, it was made clear that this deal is in the final stage.