Cabinet committee on security clears deal for 31 MQ-9B Drones

The Cabinet Committee on Security has approved the acquisition of 31 MQ-9B Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Under the deal 16 Sky Guardian and 15 Sea Guardian High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) will be purchased for the Indian Armed Forces.

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About MQ-9B Drones

It is an advanced unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (USA).
Capabilities:
- Equipped for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR) and strike missions.
- It has enhanced payload capacity, advanced sensors and longer endurance compared to earlier models.
- Can operate in various environments and conditions, making it versatile for military applications.
Key Features of MQ-9B:
- Endurance: Capable of flying for over 40 hours without refuelling.
- Payload: Can carry a variety of sensors and weapons, including precision-guided munitions.
- Autonomy: Designed for both remote control and autonomous operations.
- Advanced Technology: Incorporates AI for data analysis and decision-making support.

About Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS)

Headed by: Prime Minister.
Members: Ministers of Defence, Home Affairs, Finance and External Affairs.
Functions:
- It makes all the important decisions on defence policy and expenditure.
- It is the apex body regarding appointments of the officials in the national security bodies.
- Deals with all issues related to the law and order and national security of India.

Cabinet Committees

The roots of Cabinet committees lie in the Indian Council Act, 1861 which came into force during the time of Lord Canning.
- The act introduced the portfolio system and the Executive Council of the Governor-General.
Features of Cabinet Committees:
- Extra-Constitutional nature: not mentioned in the constitution. The Government of India Transaction of Business Rules, 1961 provides for their establishment.
- Types: Standing and Ad hoc.
- Constituted by the Prime Minister
- Membership: 3 to 8 ministers. Generally, they are made up of only Cabinet Ministers. However, Non-Cabinet Ministers can also be invited for their meetings.
- Chairman: The Prime Minister is usually in charge of these committees. Sometimes other Cabinet Ministers are also in charge.
  - E.g. Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs is headed by Raj Nath Singh, Minister of Defence