News Brief

First Batch Of US-Made Apache Attack Helicopters To Be Inducted Into Indian Army In February-March: Report

Kuldeep Negi

Jan 02, 2024, 11:21 AM | Updated 11:21 AM IST


The Apache attack-helicopter. (Nicky Boogaard/Wikimedia Commons)
The Apache attack-helicopter. (Nicky Boogaard/Wikimedia Commons)

The first batch of Apache attack helicopters from the US is expected to be inducted into the Indian Army around February-March this year.

These sophisticated attack helicopters, often referred to as 'tanks in the air', will touch down at the Hindon Air Force Station of the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Subsequently, they will be stationed in Jodhpur, close to the India-Pakistan border, India Today reported citing senior Army officials.

The Army Aviation Corps, known for operating utility helicopters like the Dhruv and Chetak, earlier inducted the locally developed Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) Prachand into their fleet at Missamari, Assam last year.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) currently operates a fleet of 22 Apache helicopters, which are stationed on both the eastern and western fronts.

The Apache, an advanced multi-mission helicopter featuring the latest technological advancements, was developed by the American aviation powerhouse, Boeing. Its status as one of the world's premier attack helicopters remains unchallenged.

This is the sole combat helicopter on the market that offers a range of functionalities for nearly every mission need. Its exclusive features include enhanced thrust and lift, joint digital operability, increased survivability, and cognitive decision support.

The helicopter has the capability to execute precise attacks from standoff distances and can function in enemy airspace despite ground threats.

These helicopters' capacity to send and receive battlefield imagery, to and from weaponry systems via data networking, renders them a formidable asset.

These attack helicopters will provide a significant edge in any future joint operations in support of land forces.

Kuldeep is Senior Editor (Newsroom) at Swarajya. He tweets at @kaydnegi.


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