The first consignment of Apache helicopters arrived at the Hindon Airbase from the United States on Tuesday. These highly anticipated “tanks in the air” will significantly enhance the combat strength of the Indian land forces.
According to reports, other procedures, such as assembling, the Joint Receipt Inspection (JRI), and induction would be followed as per the protocol.
Their deployment is specifically planned for areas near the Pakistan border, particularly in the desert sector near Jodhpur, where the Army had established its first Apache squadron in March 2024.
On July 20, CNN-News 18 reported that three Apache helicopters were set to be inducted into the Indian Army in the next two days.
Key features of Apache helicopters
The AH-64E Apache is among the most advanced attack helicopters in the world. Built by Boeing, it is capable of executing precision strikes in high-threat environments. Its addition is expected to significantly enhance India’s tactical edge in the region.
The Indian Army raised its first squadron of Apache attack helicopters in Rajasthan seeking to support ground operations in the western sector, officials said.The AH-64 Apache is one of the world’s most advanced multi-role combat helicopters and is flown by the US Army.
The AH-64E Apache attack helicopter features cutting-edge communications, navigation, and targeting systems. One of its key highlights is an advanced targeting system that enables pilots to lock onto and engage targets effectively—whether in daylight, darkness, or under challenging weather conditions like fog, rain, or dust.
Armed with a 30 mm chain gun and equipped with guided Hellfire missiles and rocket pods, the Apache is designed to deliver lethal firepower against multiple ground targets. Its Longbow radar, positioned above the rotor, allows it to detect and prioritize threats without exposing the helicopter directly.
Apache also features the Longbow radar mounted above the rotor, allowing the Apache to detect, track, and prioritise threats without direct exposure.
India first acquired 22 Apache helicopters for the Indian Air Force under a 2015 agreement. The six new ones being inducted are for the Indian Army’s Aviation Corps. In March last year, the Army Aviation Corps signed a contract for 25 new ALH helicopters.
The first batch of choppers was expected to be delivered by June 2024. However, the timeline was pushed to December that year due to supply chain issues.
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