India set to buy advanced drones from Israel

Israel and India have maintained full diplomatic relations for 25 years. In 2017, Israel’s cabinet approved several decisions to strengthen the ties.

By World Israel News Staff

The Indian Air Force is in the final stages of acquiring several advanced Israeli drones, India’s Tribune newspaper reported on Sunday

According to the report, the Indian Ministry of Defense approved the purchase of ten Heron TP drones, which were said to be capable of launching air-to-surface missiles.

“We are working to finalize the deal that is estimated to be [worth] $400 million,” the Tribune quoted sources as saying.

The Indian Air Force is already said to own 110 Harop drones, self-destructing systems primarily tasked with taking out enemy radar positions.

Israel and India have maintained full diplomatic relations for 25 years.

In 2017, Israel’s cabinet approved several decisions to strengthen the ties, including expanding exports, deepening cooperation in agriculture and water, the establishment of a joint innovation, research, and development fund, and an effort to increase tourism from India to Israel.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi became his country’s first premier to visit the Jewish State.

“Yours is truly a historic visit,” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told Modi during the visit in 2017.

“We receive you with open arms,” the Israeli leader said. “We love India. We love your culture, your history, your democracy. We view you as kindred spirits in our common quest to provide a better future for our peoples and for our world.”

Netanyahu visited India in 2018 together with a large business delegation to enhance and strengthen economic ties as well as create joint business opportunities between Israeli and Indian businesspeople.