Three More Apache Helicopters Reach India for Army Deployment
India receives three more Apache attack helicopters for Army as part of US deal amid delays in indigenous programs.
India’s armed forces are set to receive a significant boost in combat and surveillance capabilities as three Apache AH-64E attack helicopters are scheduled to arrive within days. Often described as “tanks in the air,” the Apache gunships are equipped with advanced weapon systems, including Stinger air-to-air missiles, Hellfire Longbow missiles, rockets, and a 30mm chain gun, enhancing the Army’s strike capability.
The arrival follows a ₹5,691 crore deal signed with the United States in February 2020 for six Apache helicopters for the Indian Army. The first batch of three was delivered earlier this year after delays caused by supply chain disruptions at Boeing. These helicopters will join the 22 Apaches already inducted by the Indian Air Force under a separate ₹13,952 crore contract signed in 2015.
According to defence officials, the Army’s Apache squadron will be based in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, where a dedicated unit was raised in March last year. The deployment is aimed at strengthening India’s western front, particularly in view of security challenges along the border with Pakistan.
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In parallel, the Indian Navy is also expanding its rotary-wing fleet. Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi is set to commission the second squadron of MH-60R Seahawk helicopters at INS Hansa in Goa on December 17. Of the 24 Seahawks ordered under a ₹15,157 crore contract signed in February 2020, 15 have already been delivered by US-based Sikorsky-Lockheed Martin.
These maritime helicopters are considered vital amid increasing Chinese submarine activity in the Indian Ocean Region. The MH-60R Seahawks will gradually replace the Navy’s ageing Sea King and Kamov-28 helicopters, significantly improving anti-submarine warfare, surveillance, and search-and-rescue capabilities.
Looking ahead, India has outlined an ambitious helicopter acquisition plan, including 484 light utility helicopters in the 3.5-tonne class and 419 Indian multi-role helicopters in the 10–15-tonne category. However, delays at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) have raised concerns. HAL is also scheduled to deliver 156 Prachand light combat helicopters to the Army and IAF between 2028 and 2033 under a ₹62,700 crore deal, marking a major step toward indigenous defence manufacturing.
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