A news published by The Wire, claims that “US blocks $3 billion drone sale to India until ‘meaningful investigation’ of Pannun assassination conspiracy”. Following this, multiple media outlets from Pakistan like Dunya News and Geo News also published the same report.
Fact Check
We investigated the viral claim. Firstly we checked the official website of the USA Defense Security Cooperation Agency. Concerning this news, a Press Release dated 1st Feb 2024 was mentioned on the website. It stated, “The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of India of MQ-9B Remotely Piloted Aircraft and related equipment for an estimated cost of $3.99 billion.”
In a press briefing by US State Dept spokesperson on Feb 1, 2024, Matthew Miller stated, “Generally, the US-India Defence Partnership has seen significant growth over the past decade. The drone deal is a proposed sale announced during Prime Minister Modi’s visit last year. We believe it offers significant potential to advance further strategic technology cooperation with India and military cooperation in the region. Congress plays an important role in the US arms transfer process. We routinely consult with the members of Congress on the Foreign Affairs Committees before our formal notification so we can address questions that they might have.”
In addition to this, in responding to the India-US drone deal, Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs said, “This specific issue pertains to the United States. They have established internal procedures, and we acknowledge and respect that.”
Furthermore, the Hindustan Times reported that the US State Department has informed General Atomics, that the US Congress has approved the ‘tiered review’ of the proposed sale of 31 MQ9B drones to India. General Atomics has conveyed this information to the Indian Government, including the national security establishment. Verification from sources in Washington confirms the impending notification for the sale of 31 MQ9B Predator armed drones to India. Among these drones, the Indian Navy will receive 15. The Indian Army and Air Force each will acquire eight high-altitude, long-endurance drones from the US.
Conclusion
Thus, from the fact check, it is clear that the viral claim is fake.