India is likely to receive its first batch of Apache attack helicopters this month, which would be deployed along the Pakistan border, as per a report by India Today.

The development comes after Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a telephonic conversation with his US counterpart Pete Hegseth.

The delivery of Apache choppers is already delayed by over 15 months. The deployment along the western front is eyed to strengthen the combat capabilities of the armed forces. The Army Aviation Corps established its first Apache squadron in Jodhpur in March 2024. However, the unit remains without the choppers.

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Originally, the first batch was slated for delivery by May-June 2024, but the deadline was pushed to December that year. The $600 million agreement was signed between India and the US in 2020. The initial plan was to get the delivery of six Apache AH-64Es in two batches, comprising three units each.

The defence ministry officials have attributed the delay to technical issues on the part of the United States. The Apache choppers will be delivered in two batches, with one likely to arrive this month and the final by the end of the year.

The India Air Force has already received 22 Apache choppers under a contract that was signed in 2015. The contract for the army was signed in 2020. The Apache attck helicopters have not become more crucial to strengthen the armed force's aviation squadron along the western front, especially after the recent escalated military skirmish between India and Pakistan during Operation Sindoor.

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The defence capabilities are alway up for an overhaul and advancement. Inducting Apache would be a game changer for the Indian Army. The helicopter has the ability to stay stable in combat and can fly fast with two powerful engines. The helicopter is also capable of carrying Hellfire missiles, a deal for which has already been signed between India and the US.