India and the United States have signed a significant defense agreement worth ₹34,500 crore (approximately $4 billion) for the acquisition of 31 Predator drones for the Indian armed forces. The deal includes the establishment of a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facility in India for these drones manufactured by General Atomics.
This procurement will enhance India’s surveillance capabilities, especially along its contested border with China, and is part of India’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its defense infrastructure. Of the 31 drones, 15 will be allocated to the Indian Navy, while the Indian Air Force and Indian Army will each receive eight drones. These long-range, armed drones will complement the two already leased by the Navy, enhancing its operational reach.
The deal received final approval from India's Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) last week, just before the October 31 deadline set by the U.S. government. Vivek Lall, the CEO of General Atomics Global Corporation, who played a pivotal role in the negotiations, attended the signing ceremony.
General Atomics has a partnership with Bharat Forge to produce UAV components in India and has committed to creating a global drone maintenance hub in the country. The company will also support India’s indigenous combat drone development program, and the two nations are considering a technology transfer agreement for future collaboration.
