The India-U.S. deal for 31 MQ-9B drones is an agreement between the Indian government and the U.S. government to procure 30 armed and one non-armed drone for the Indian military.

• It is a part of India's ongoing efforts to modernize its military technology.
• These drones will enhance India's surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities along its borders and over the Indian Ocean region.
• MQ-9B drones are capable of carrying out strikes on terrorists and other targets on land and sea.
• The deal was signed during the visit of U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to India in October 2020.
• The cost of the deal is estimated to be around $3 billion US dollars.
• The deal includes a plan for joint production of some components of the drones in India, which will help in boosting India's defense industry.
• The MQ-9B drones will be used by the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy.

Overall, this deal is expected to strengthen the defense ties between India and the U.S. and provide a significant boost to India's military capabilities.