October 15, 2024: In a significant boost to India's defense capabilities, the country has signed a major procurement deal with the United States for 31 MQ-9B High Altitude Long Endurance drones, commonly referred to as Predator drones. The agreement, valued at Rs 32,000 crore, was formalized following discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden during the recent Quad Leaders' Summit in Delaware.

The deal not only includes the acquisition of the drones but also establishes a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in India, which is expected to enhance the operational readiness and longevity of the UAVs. Reports suggest that the total value of the project could increase to Rs 34,500 crore as additional costs are factored in.

The procurement was approved by India's Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) last week. Under the terms of the agreement, 15 drones will be allocated to the Indian Navy, while the remaining units will be evenly distributed between the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army.

This landmark deal has been in the pipeline for several years, with final approvals only secured recently during a Defence Acquisition Council meeting. The urgency for finalization was underscored by the impending deadline for the validity of the American proposal, which was set to expire on October 31.

The drones are expected to be stationed at four strategic locations across India, including INS Rajali near Chennai, Porbandar in Gujarat, Sarsawa, and Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh. This deployment aims to significantly enhance the surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities of the Indian armed forces.

The United States had previously approved the sale of these 31 MQ-9B drones at an estimated cost of $3.99 billion back in February, marking a crucial step in the evolving defense partnership between the two nations.