The Indian Army is getting ready to induct the first batch of AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters which will come in the month of May. On Friday (March 15, 2024) the Army Aviation Corps raised its first unit at Jodhpur, Rajasthan where the first batch of three attack helicopters will operate from. These Apaches will be in desert camouflage and are the second attack helicopters the Indian Army will operate after the indigenous Light Combat Helicopters.
The Army Aviation Corps currently has indigenous WSI-Rudra combat helicopters manufactured by state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). HAL has prepared Rudra by converting its Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) into combat. Besides, the indigenous LCH Prachanda has also been received by the Army.
It has been reported previously by Financial Express Online that in 2020, the Ministry of Defence had signed a contract worth around US$ 800 million for six AH-64E Apache Helicopters for the Indian Army. These helicopters were to reach India by April, however, there has been some delay. According to sources in the defence and security establishment the first batch of three helicopters will now arrive in May and the second batch will reach India in July.
The Army needs these helicopters to carry out operations by entering enemy areas. During the Afghan war (2001-2020), US forces had killed a large number of terrorists hiding in mountainous areas and caves through these helicopters. Along with this, it is also used to destroy enemy posts and bunkers in high altitude areas. These attack helicopters have expertise in operating behind the enemy lines by avoiding enemy radar.
About the Helicopters
Apache helicopters are equipped with very dangerous Hellfire missiles, 2.75-inch rockets and 30 mm chain (nod)-gun. 16 Hellfire missiles and 76 rockets can be installed in Apache. Apart from this, Apache equipped with 1200 rounds can fire 600-650 rounds in a minute.
The Indian Air Force has 22 Apache helicopters since 2019. The first Apache helicopter squadron of the Air Force was deployed in Pathankot, known as Gladiator (125 Squadron).
Earlier this week at the tri-service Ex Bharat-Shakti (March 12, 2024) held at Pokhran, Rajasthan, both Rudra and Prachanda helicopters took part in fire power demonstrations.