The US Embassy in India on Wednesday announced the arrival of the final batch of Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters for the Indian Army, describing it as a fulfillment of commitments under the US-India defense partnership. The deliveries, which had been repeatedly delayed, mark a significant milestone in the ongoing military collaboration between the two countries.
In a statement on X, the US Embassy emphasized that the deliveries advance the joint statement issued by the US President and India’s Prime Minister, reinforcing the Major Defense Partnership. “The arrival of the latest Apache helicopters demonstrates the reliable and expanding US-India defense relationship. These helicopters, equipped with advanced capabilities, enhance regional security and strengthen collaboration in co-production, training, and technology exchange,” the statement said.
The Indian Army has now received the final three helicopters, completing the total contract of six units for the Army Aviation Corps. Following assembly, joint inspections, and other formalities, the helicopters are set to be stationed in Jodhpur. Initially, the first batch was expected to arrive in February or March of this year, but the helicopters were delivered in July, following several postponements from earlier projections in 2023 and 2024.
Alongside the Apaches, the Indian Army is expanding its attack helicopter fleet with 90 homegrown Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) Prachand. The Army Aviation Corps also operates the weapon-integrated Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Rudra. The Indian Air Force already operates 22 Apache helicopters deployed in Ladakh and western sectors.
The AH-64E Apache is armed with air-to-ground Hellfire missiles, 70 mm Hydra rockets, air-to-air Stinger missiles, and a 30 mm chain gun with 1,200 rounds. Equipped with the Longbow fire control radar, it provides 360-degree coverage, a nose-mounted sensor suite, target acquisition, and night vision capabilities. The AH-64E Version 6 integrates upgraded sensors, software, and weapon systems, optimized for Multi-Domain Operations.
Designed for highly contested battlefields, the AH-64E v6 supports interoperability across domains, combining onboard and offboard sensors, long-range weapons, and network connectivity to enable coordinated joint operations. Boeing describes this configuration as a fully integrated attack helicopter, capable of meeting the demands of modern warfare and enhancing the Indian Army’s combat readiness.
