The Indian Army is set to receive the first batch of long-awaited Apache AH-64E attack helicopters from the US. Three out of the six “tank in air” Apaches will arrive around July 15 as per the Rs 5,691 crore deal. The combat helicopters focus on enhancing the Army’s capabilities on the western border.
However, they were set to arrive in March 2024 and currently facing a 15 month delay. The second batch of the remain three is expected in November, as per Defence Ministry officials.
US secretary of defence Pete Hegseth had assured defence minister Rajnath Singh, via a telephonic conversation Tuesday, July 1, that the six heavy-duty choppers will be delivered within this year, as per reports.
What are Apache 64E helicopters?
These Boeing manufactures Apache gunships are made for combat. The backbone of US’ helicopter fleet, they are equipped with the most advanced technologies which allow Multi-Domain Operations (MOD) in the battlefield.
The lethal, survivable and agile system provides reach and easy maneuverability. Nearly 15 countries have received the gunships. Equipped with Hellfire missiles, 70mm rockets and a 30mm chain gun, the Apache AH-64E attack helicopter is capable of engaging ground targets, armoured vehicles and low-flying aircraft.
The advanced sensors allow the battleship targeting radar and night vision capabilities making it suitable for all-weather operations in diverse altitude and low visibility zones.
Apache helicopter deal
The six new Apache helicopters for the Indian Army will be an addition to the 22 such choppers. They are under the Rs 13,952 chopper deal with the US, signed in September 2015. In 2020, a $600 million deal signed on six new to the fleet. As per reports, the delay was due to technical issues in the supply-chain.
The delivery of the new combat helicopters come after India faced a major global threat from terrorist activities. Following the Pahalgam terror attack and India’s Operation Sindoor, the western border was proven to be rather vulnerable. While the India-Pakistan ceasefire agreement is in place, the deployment of the three Apaches set to arrive this month are targeted for the sensitive regions.