NEW DELHI: The first batch of three AH-64E Apache attack helicopters is expected by July 15th. The arrival is part of a $600 million Foreign Military Sales (FMS) deal with the United States, signed in 2020, which includes six Boeing-manufactured Apache Guardian helicopters.
The remaining three Apaches are expected to be delivered by November 2025.
This is the first time the Army Aviation Corps (AAC), and not the Indian Air Force (IAF), will induct and operate the Apaches. Until now, only the IAF has fielded the AH-64E, with 22 such helicopters in its fleet since 2020.
The Army variant will be specially configured for land-force operations, supporting armoured and mechanised formations in offensive and defensive missions.
The helicopters will be stationed at the first AAC Apache squadron in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, which was formally raised in March 2024. However, the squadron has been non-operational for over 15 months due to the delayed delivery of its aircraft.
Strategically located near the Pakistan border, the Jodhpur base will serve as the Apache home for western theatre operations.
The AH-64E Apache Guardian is the most advanced variant of the combat-proven helicopter. Features include:
- Longbow fire control radar
- Advanced Target Acquisition Designation System (TADS)
- Hellfire anti-tank guided missiles, Hydra-70 rockets
- 30mm M230 chain gun
- Enhanced composite rotor blades
- Networking for real-time battlefield data sharing
Its integration with the Indian Army’s ground combat units is expected to enhance close air support and precision strike capabilities.
The initial delivery was expected between May and June 2024, but the timeline was pushed back due to a mix of global supply chain bottlenecks and technical integration issues, according to defence and industry sources.
India’s Ministry of Defence and U.S. officials have not publicly commented on the revised schedule, but sources confirmed the July 2025 target remains firm.
India inducted 22 AH-64E Apaches into the Air Force in 2019–20. In February 2020, the Army ordered six under the U.S. FMS program.
The induction of these helicopters aligns with India’s broader strategy of enhancing its combat aviation arm amid persistent security challenges from both Pakistan and China. The AH-64Es are also likely to be deployed in Eastern Ladakh or the desert sector in the future, depending on operational requirements.
