Indian Army Receives Final Apache Helicopters – Full Fleet Now Complete
Indian Army completes full fleet of six advanced AH-64E Apache attack helicopters with final batch arrival.
The Indian Army has received the final batch of three AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from the United States, completing its contracted fleet of six helicopters for the Army Aviation Corps. The helicopters landed at Hindon Air Force Station and will be deployed in Jodhpur after assembly, joint inspections, and formal procedures.
The US Embassy highlighted the delivery as a milestone in the US-India Major Defense Partnership, citing progress on commitments made by the US President and India’s Prime Minister. The embassy emphasized that the Apache helicopters will strengthen regional security and enhance cooperation in co-production, training, and technology exchange.
The deliveries had faced repeated delays, with the first batch expected in early 2025 but arriving only in July. Earlier projections had anticipated deliveries beginning in 2023, which were subsequently postponed to 2024 and later to mid-2025, making this final batch particularly significant for the Army’s operational readiness.
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The AH-64E Apache is equipped with advanced weaponry, including air-to-ground Hellfire missiles, 70 mm Hydra rockets, Stinger air-to-air missiles, and a 30 mm chain gun with 1,200 rounds. Its Longbow fire control radar provides 360-degree coverage, while its nose-mounted sensors enable target acquisition and night vision capabilities, making it highly effective in modern combat scenarios.
The AH-64E Version 6, the latest configuration, features upgraded sensors, software, and weapons performance, designed for Multi-Domain Operations. It integrates onboard and offboard sensors, long-range stand-off weapons, and network connectivity to operate in complex, contested battle spaces, ensuring interoperability with other platforms.
The Apache fleet complements the Indian Army’s broader expansion of attack helicopter capabilities, alongside the induction of 90 homegrown Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) Prachand. This strategic enhancement underscores India’s focus on modernizing its aerial firepower and strengthening its readiness for future combat operations.
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