The Indian government has given the green light to significant defense agreements worth Rs.80,000 crore with the United States. This initiative aims to enhance India's surveillance capabilities and strengthen its naval forces through the acquisition of 31 Predator drones and the construction of two nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) to be built in India.

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved these defense deals on Wednesday. Among the key elements of the agreements is the procurement of 31 High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from the US. The Indian Navy will receive 15 SeaGuardian drones, while the Indian Army and Air Force will each be equipped with eight SkyGuardian drones. The MQ-9B drone, a variant of the MQ-9 "Reaper," has been notable for its operational effectiveness, including a recent mission that led to the death of al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri in Kabul.

Additionally, the CCS sanctioned a deal for the construction of two nuclear-powered attack submarines at the Ship Building Centre in Vishakhapatnam. This project is estimated to cost around Rs.45,000 crore and will involve significant collaboration with private sector companies, including Larsen and Toubro.

The approval for the drone deal was time-sensitive, needing clearance before October 31 to align with the validity of the American proposal. The signing of this agreement is expected to take place in the coming days. The mega drone deal was initially announced during Prime Minister Modi's historic state visit in June 2023.

Government sources indicate that these new nuclear-powered attack submarines will enhance the Indian Navy's underwater capabilities. The submarines will be developed under the ambitious Project Advanced Technology Vessel, distinct from the five nuclear submarines currently under construction in the Arihant class at the same facility.

India's nuclear triad consists of three nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) that provide land, air, and sea-based deterrence: INS Arihant, INS Arighat, and the S4. The addition of these advanced drones and submarines reflects India's commitment to strengthening its defense infrastructure in an increasingly complex security environment.

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