Apache Power Incoming: Indian Army To Induct Its First Fleet Of US-Made Combat Helicopters At Hindon Airbase
The Indian Army will receive its first three Apache AH-64E attack helicopters from Boeing at Hindon Airbase, deploying them to Jodhpur. This marks the Army's first Apache fleet.
The Indian Army is poised to receive its first batch of Apache AH-64E attack helicopters from American aerospace giant Boeing. According to sources, three Apache helicopters are expected to land at the Hindon Airbase on Monday. These combat helicopters will be deployed at the Indian Army’s Aviation Corps base in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. While the Indian Air Force already operates 22 Apache helicopters stationed at Pathankot in Punjab and Jorhat in Assam, this will be the first time the Indian Army will have its own fleet.
Apache Induction Delayed by Over a Year
In 2020, the Ministry of Defence signed a deal with the United States to procure six Apache helicopters for the Army at a cost of approximately $800 million (around ₹7,000 crore). The delivery of these helicopters was initially scheduled for 2024. However, the deal has been delayed by nearly 15 months.
Sources familiar with the matter informed that the remaining three helicopters under this contract are also expected to arrive within this calendar year.
The delay in delivery is reportedly linked to recent geopolitical tensions and diplomatic hiccups, particularly following strains triggered by US President Donald Trump's claims regarding ‘Operation Sindoor’ and the India-Pakistan conflict and previously Khalistani separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. Nonetheless, progress has been made in other defence collaborations—India recently received aviation engines from the US for its Tejas fighter jet programme.
Key Combat Features of the Apache
The Apache AH-64E is a versatile attack helicopter capable of operating in complex terrains and executing deep strike missions across enemy lines. It is also effective in mountainous regions for targeting enemy bunkers and terrorist hideouts.
Its combat features include:
• Longbow Radar: This advanced radar system can simultaneously track up to 128 targets and engage 16 of them in seconds.
• Hellfire Missiles: These air-to-surface missiles are designed to destroy armoured vehicles such as tanks.
• Air-to-Ground Rockets: Ideal for striking enemy positions on the ground.
• 30 mm M230 Chain Gun: This automatic cannon delivers high-rate firing, making it effective in close-range combat.
While the Indian Army is preparing to induct its first Apaches, it currently operates the indigenously developed ‘Rudra’ attack helicopters. These choppers are already part of India’s tactical arsenal and support ground operations.
The arrival of the Apache helicopters is expected to significantly enhance the Indian Army’s offensive air capabilities, particularly in difficult terrains and forward areas.
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