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In the midst of India’s tense border standoff with China, US aerospace major Boeing delivered the final five of the 22 Apache attack helicopters to the Indian Air Force last month, and the fleet has now been part of the assets deployed in key air bases along the Line of Actual Control, officials said on Friday.
The AH-64E Apache is one of the world’s most advanced multi-role combat helicopters, and is flown by the US Army. The Chinook is a multi-role, vertical-lift platform, primarily used for transporting troops, artillery, equipment and fuel.
India finalised a multi-billion dollar contract with Boeing to procure 22 Apache helicopters and 15 Chinooks for the IAF in September 2015.
Both the Apache and Chinook helicopters have been pressed into service as part of the IAF’s deployment along the LAC in view of the bitter standoff with China in eastern Ladakh, officials said.
IAF had ordered 22 AH-64E Apache
The attack helicopter is highly suited for reconnaissance, security, peacekeeping operations, and lethal attack in various environments and conditions.
Twenty defence forces around the world have bought Chinooks. Considered the world's most reliable and efficient heavy-lift helicopter, Chinook can operate in any kind of climatic conditions including altitude.
The Ministry of Defence had finalised its order with Boeing for the production, training and support of 22 AH-64E Apache and 15 CH-47F (I) Chinook helicopters in September 2015.
Apache, Chinook deployed in Ladakh
Former IAF chief BS Dhanoa had called Chinook a national asset which would greatly bolster the heavy-lift capabilities of the air force with quick deployment of men and material whenever needed.
The contract between India and the US was signed for the acquisition of six Apaches for the Indian Army during US President Donald Trump's visit to New Delhi.
During border tensions between India and China, the IAF had to deploy its assets including Apache and Chinook at forward bases in Ladakh. While Apache tracked and monitored the movement of Chinese troops, Chinook played a critical role in the movement of men and equipment at the icy heights of Ladakh.