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India to finally get Apache combat helicopters this month: What makes them a game-changer?
A Greek Apache helicopter flies as Nato holds training exercise 'Immediate Response' drills with host nations at Krivolak army base, North Macedonia, June 2, 2025. File Image/Reuters
India is set to take delivery of its first AH-64E Apache attack helicopters for the Army this month, reinforcing its defence capabilities, particularly along the western frontier.
The delivery — long delayed by supply chain disruptions and technical issues — is the result of a government-to-government foreign military sales agreement signed with the United States in 2020.
The $600 million deal will see the Indian Army receive six state-of-the-art multi-role combat helicopters in two batches.
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According to Defence Ministry officials, the first batch of three helicopters is now expected to arrive by mid-July, with the second batch following in November.
This handover follows a phone conversation on July 1 between India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth, where both sides reviewed ongoing defence cooperation.
The Army's 451 Aviation Squadron, based at Nagtalao in Jodhpur, was raised in March 2024 specifically for operating these Apache helicopters.
However, due to a delivery delay of more than 15 months, the squadron has been without its primary aircraft since its inception.
The helicopters were initially expected between May and June 2024 but were later rescheduled for December. Now, with deliveries beginning shortly, operational deployment is finally within reach.
Why India needed the new Apaches
These Apaches are expected to significantly enhance the Army's capability along the Line of Control and the International Border with Pakistan, where tensions and troop presence have risen in recent years, including under the ambit of Operation Sindoor.
Their deployment is designed to provide rapid-response attack power and direct air support to ground units operating in sensitive terrain, including desert and semi-arid zones.
The Army views the AH-64E Apaches as central to strengthening its aviation corps' strike capability.
India's acquisition is intended to complement the 22 Apache helicopters already operated by the Indian Air Force under a separate agreement signed in 2015.
Unlike the Air Force's use of Apaches in broader combat missions, the Army's units are tailored for tactical battlefield roles such as close air support and anti-armour strikes.
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What we know about the Apache AH-64E
The AH-64E Apache, also known as the Apache Guardian, is the latest and most advanced version of the renowned Apache helicopter lineage.
Globally recognised as one of the most capable multi-role combat helicopters, it forms the backbone of the US Army's attack aviation fleet and is in use by a growing number of international forces.
As of today, over 1,280 Apache helicopters are in active service worldwide, having collectively logged more than five million flight hours.
Of these, more than 1.3 million hours were recorded in combat operations, establishing the platform's credibility in real-world scenarios.
The AH-64E variant, which will be in production until at least 2028, is engineered to remain operational until the 2060s.
With its Version 6 (v6) upgrade, the AH-64E brings improved sensors, software, avionics, and weapons systems.
The Apache is built around the concept of Multi-Domain Operations (MDO), integrating seamlessly into a connected battlefield environment. Its Modular Open Systems Architecture allows it to adapt to new technologies and battlefield requirements.
Boeing, the manufacturer of the Apache, has focused on the aircraft's agility, reach, and resilience. The platform supports a wide range of roles, from anti-tank warfare and close air support to reconnaissance and suppression of enemy air defences.
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What the Apache Guardian brings to the battlefield
The Apache Guardian is equipped with some of the most sophisticated firepower and avionics in modern rotary-wing aviation. The aircraft carries a 30mm M230 Chain Gun, capable of firing up to 625 armour-penetrating rounds per minute.
In addition, it can be fitted with up to 16 AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and air-to-air Stinger missiles for both ground and aerial threats. It also supports up to 76 70mm unguided or laser-guided rockets for area suppression.
One of its key technological strengths is the AN/APG-78 Longbow fire-control radar (FCR), mounted on a dome above the rotor.
This advanced radar system enables the Apache to detect targets behind obstacles such as terrain and structures. The radar can simultaneously track 128 targets and engage 16 of them in under 30 seconds.
According to Boeing, the modernised Apache builds on the mature, combat-proven AH-64 platform. Graphic via Boeing
The aircraft also features the Modernised Target Acquisition and Designation System (MTADS), allowing pilots and gunners to carry out precision targeting using day/night sights and laser designators.
The pilot night vision sensor offers helmet-mounted infrared vision, which is crucial for night operations or in low-light conditions.
Another major asset is its ability to integrate with unmanned aerial systems. The Apache can control drones such as the MQ-1C Gray Eagle, providing extended surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
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It can receive and transmit real-time battlefield imagery, aiding in both tactical planning and rapid engagement.
Designed for survivability, the Apache Guardian features crashworthy external fuel tanks, in-flight refuelling capability, and redundant systems to maintain performance in combat situations.
An auxiliary internal fuel tank can be used in place of ammunition for extended-range missions, a critical feature in India's vast terrain, especially in desert regions.
The helicopter's digital cockpit, advanced communication systems, and tactical internet integration make it a highly connected and interoperable platform suitable for modern joint-force operations.
Why this move lends a hand in India's defence production ambitions
India's Apache acquisition programme is also tied to its broader objective of promoting domestic defence manufacturing. Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL), a joint venture between Boeing and Tata Advanced Systems, delivered the first fuselage for the Apache helicopter in January 2023 from its facility in Hyderabad.
This contribution supports the Indian government's 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative and reflects an ongoing effort to build indigenous capability in high-end defence platforms.
While the current delivery includes six helicopters, the Indian Army has expressed interest in acquiring an additional 18 Apaches in the future. These plans are still under evaluation and subject to further approvals.
The helicopters are being acquired under the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme, which facilitates direct government-to-government procurement of American military platforms.
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In addition to the airframes, the package includes training, munitions, spare parts, electro-optical systems, radar equipment, certification and long-term logistical support.
Some estimates suggest that the total deal value, including add-ons, could range between ₹4,100 crore and ₹6,700 crore (approximately $600 million to $930 million).
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