Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Dec 17: In a significant boost to India’s combat aviation strength, the United States on Wednesday confirmed the delivery of the remaining three AH-64E Boeing Apache attack helicopters to the Indian Army, completing the long-pending induction under a bilateral defence agreement.
Announcing the development on X, the US Embassy said the delivery fulfils commitments made under the joint statement of the US President and the Indian Prime Minister. It described the arrival of the helicopters as another milestone in the growing US–India Major Defence Partnership, underlining the reliability and depth of defence cooperation between the two countries.
The embassy noted that the Apache helicopters, with their advanced combat capabilities, will enhance regional security and further cooperation in areas such as co-production, training and technology exchange.
The delivery comes after multiple delays. The Indian Army had received the first batch of three helicopters in July, though the initial handover was originally scheduled for May 2024. The Army Aviation Corps had been awaiting these platforms since last year.
The six Apache helicopters were procured under an $800 million deal signed with the United States in 2020. Widely regarded as among the most advanced attack helicopters in the world, the AH-64E is expected to significantly strengthen the Army’s operational firepower.
With India facing security challenges along both the western front with Pakistan and the northern border with China, the Apache helicopters are expected to play a key role in providing close air support, particularly in western sector operations.
Often described as “tanks in the air,” the AH-64E helicopters are armed with Hellfire missiles, 2.75-inch rockets and a 30-mm chain gun capable of firing 600 to 650 rounds per minute. Their combination of firepower, agility and survivability makes them a formidable battlefield asset.
In March 2024, the Army Aviation Corps raised its first Apache-equipped unit, the 451 Aviation Squadron, at Jodhpur in Rajasthan to operate these helicopters.
The Army’s decision to induct the Apache was also shaped by the Indian Air Force’s operational experience with the platform. The IAF already operates 22 Apache attack helicopters acquired under a separate deal signed in 2015.
Technically advanced, the AH-64E features state-of-the-art communication, navigation, sensor and weapon systems. It has a primary mission gross weight of 15,075 pounds, a maximum operating weight of 23,000 pounds, a climb rate exceeding 2,800 feet per minute and a top speed of over 150 knots.
With the final delivery now complete, the Indian Army is set to fully operationalise one of the world’s most lethal attack helicopter platforms, marking a major step forward in its combat preparedness.