New Delhi, 17 December (H.S.): The Indian Army has received the final batch of three AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from the United States, completing the fleet of six aircraft under the 451 Army Aviation Squadron based in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The U.S.-manufactured Apaches were transported from Arizona to Hindon Airbase aboard an Antonov Airlines AN-124 strategic air lifter. These cutting-edge helicopters will operate from the Jodhpur Air Base, working in coordination with the Indian Air Force’s indigenous Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) ‘Prachand’ squadron stationed there.

The Indian Army had signed a $800 million deal with the U.S. in 2020 for the procurement of six Apache helicopters. In anticipation of their delivery, the Army had raised its first Apache squadron in Jodhpur on March 15 last year. The first batch of three Apaches arrived in India on July 22, 2024.

However, the delayed supply of the remaining three helicopters was attributed to Boeing’s disrupted global supply chain. During Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to the U.S. last year, the issue of delivery delays was formally raised, though the handover was delayed by around 15 months.

Specifically designed for the Indian Army, the Apache is capable of breaching enemy fortifications and executing deep-penetration strikes inside hostile territory. In the western sector near the Pakistan border, the Army’s Apache squadron will operate alongside the Air Force’s ‘Prachand’ unit, enhancing India’s joint aerial strike capability. The combination of the American-made Apache and the indigenous Prachand is expected to redefine India’s offensive air power in the region.

The Apache AH-64E can fire up to 16 anti-tank missiles within a 550 km range, enabling it to destroy heavily armored targets with precision. It is designed for swift hit-and-run operations, striking like a hawk and retreating safely.

Its onboard gun can load 1,200 rounds of 30mm ammunition, and the helicopter can fly continuously for up to 2.45 hours.Equipped with long-range radar, air-to-ground rockets, and advanced targeting systems, the Apache is among the most advanced multi-role combat helicopters in the world.

Armed with Hellfire missiles, 70mm rockets, and a 30mm chain gun, it can effectively neutralize enemy armor, bunkers, and air defense networks. Its advanced sensors provide night-combat capability, while its network-centric warfare system makes it highly lethal in high-threat and mountainous terrains, such as India’s northern and western borders.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar