Apache Helicopters: India is finally going to get 3 out of the 6 Apache AH-64E attack helicopters it ordered for the Army. These helicopters are likely to arrive by the end of this month, after a delay of more than a year. This news came just after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had a phone call with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, where he requested faster deliveries of both the GE F404 engines for the Tejas fighter jet and the Apache helicopters. According to reports, once the helicopters reach India, experts from the Army and the original US maker will carry out a joint inspection to check everything.
Back in 2020, India and the US signed a deal worth $600 million for these six helicopters for the Indian Army. This was in addition to an earlier agreement in 2015 under which India received 22 Apache helicopters for the Air Force. The Air Force already has all 22 helicopters, but the Army is still waiting. The 6 new helicopters were supposed to come in 3 batches last year, but there were many technical problems and supply chain issues that caused a long delay.
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Deployment in Rajasthan
The new Apache helicopters will be based in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The Army set up a new Apache squadron there last year, but it has been waiting for over 15 months without any helicopters to fly, reported Business Today. These helicopters are very important because they will be used on the western border near Pakistan, mostly in the desert areas. They will help the Army deal with enemy tanks and also give close support during ground battles. The Army has been working hard to build up its strength near the Line of Control and the international border, especially after Operation Sindoor.
The Apache AH-64E is one of the most advanced attack helicopters in the world. It is made by Boeing and is known for its deadly weapons, strong radar, and high-tech systems. The AH-64E v6, also called the Apache Guardian, is the latest version. This version has better sensors, improved software, and stronger weapons performance. Boeing says that this model is built for tough and modern battlefields where many types of threats exist at once.
The helicopter has a special radar system that sits on top of the rotor. This radar can find enemies even if they are hiding behind buildings or hills. It can track up to 128 targets at one time and attack 16 of them in just 30 seconds. It also has a targeting system with sights that work both during the day and at night. The pilot gets a night vision sensor on their helmet which helps them fly in dark or low-light conditions.
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The Apache Guardian can share images of the battlefield and even control drones like the MQ-1C Gray Eagle, which helps with spying and long-distance attacks. It has strong survival systems, like a glass cockpit, crash-resistant fuel tanks, and advanced sensors. It can also be refueled while flying. If needed, it can carry extra fuel inside by removing some ammunition, which is helpful for India’s big terrain.
The Indian Army plans to use the Apaches along with the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, which is already part of both the Army and Air Force. These Apaches will support ground troops and bring more balance to the Army’s air attack power. The helicopters are expected to help India improve its defence operations near the western border and face any threats more confidently.
