India has received, after a 16-month delay, the first three of six AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from Boeing, marking a major milestone for the Indian Army. These advanced helicopters, painted in desert camouflage, arrived at Hindon Airbase in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, aboard a U.S. military cargo plane. Their induction is expected to significantly enhance the Indian Army's operational strength, particularly along the Western front and in high-altitude regions like Ladakh.

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The Indian Army placed an order for six Apache helicopters in 2020 at a cost of over Rs 4,100 crore. Boeing began production at its Mesa facility in Arizona in August 2023, but supply chain disruptions in the aerospace sector delayed delivery. The remaining three helicopters are scheduled to arrive by the end of 2025.

Previously, in 2020, Boeing completed the delivery of 22 AH-64E Apaches to the Indian Air Force (IAF), following a 2015 contract. In 2017, the Defence Ministry approved a separate deal for the Army’s six Apaches, including weapon systems, amounting to Rs 4,168 crore.

Milestone For India To Get AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters 

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the arrival of these helicopters as a "significant step" toward strengthening India’s defence capabilities. He emphasized their value in enhancing the Army Aviation wing's combat readiness in challenging terrain.

The AH-64E Apache is among the most advanced attack helicopters in the world. It can track up to 128 targets per minute, prioritize threats, and is armed with fire-and-forget Hellfire missiles, 76 rockets, and a 30mm chain gun capable of firing up to 650 rounds per minute. With a maximum operating weight of 10,432 kg, it can climb more than 2,800 feet per minute and features advanced avionics, digital connectivity, and UAV control capability.

The Apache's introduction supports the Army Aviation Corps' broader modernization push, which includes the addition of Light Combat Helicopters (LCH), Light Utility Helicopters (LUH), and unmanned aerial vehicles. Boeing calls the Apache “the world’s most advanced and proven attack helicopter,” forming the backbone of many global fleets, including those of the U.S., U.K., Israel, Japan, and several other nations.

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These helicopters will provide critical reconnaissance and offensive support, delivering the agility, firepower, and technological edge needed for future joint operations.