(a) whether the United States (US) has approved the sale of armed drones to India and if so, the details thereof;
(b) whether the US also offered integrated air and missile defence systems to India and if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether a deal for the National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (NASAMS-II) with US is also underway and if so, the progress made in this regard ; and
(d) the other steps taken by the Government for strengthening the Defence System?
MINISTER OF STATE (SHRI SHRIPAD NAIK)
IN THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE
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(a) to (d) : Based on threat assessment and security imperatives, Government constantly reviews the national security scenario and takes steps to induct appropriate defence equipment to meet the security challenges and operational requirements. This is a continuous process undertaken through procurement from various indigenous as well as foreign sources. Highest priority is accorded to optimally equip the Armed Forces and keep them in a state of readiness.
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