After a delay of more than 15 months, the Indian Army is finally expected to receive the first batch of Apache combat helicopters from the United States. These helicopters are a part of the Army’s effort to strengthen its power along the western border after Operation Sindoor.

In March 2024, the Army Aviation Corps formed its first Apache squadron in Jodhpur. But even after more than a year, this squadron has not received the Apache attack helicopters it was created for. This has left the squadron waiting for the key weapons it needs.

The Apache AH-64E helicopters were supposed to be delivered in May or June 2024 as per a $600 million deal signed with the US in 2020. The Army was to receive six Apache helicopters. But because of supply chain problems and technical issues on the US side, the delivery was delayed. The new delivery deadline was moved to December 2024.

Now, sources who are aware of the delivery timeline have said that the helicopters may finally arrive by this month. “The first batch of three helicopters is likely to be delivered in the coming weeks, while the second batch of the remaining three helicopters will reach India later this year,” sources in the Defence Ministry said.

The plan was always to bring the six helicopters in two batches of three. But the first batch missed several deadlines and has still not landed in India. This delay has affected the Army’s planning and preparation, especially since the Apache helicopters are meant to play a big role in operations along the western border.

The Apache AH-64E helicopters are known for their powerful weapons, sharp targeting systems, and ability to fly in difficult conditions. They are designed to support the army in critical operations and help Indian soldiers during ground missions.

While the Indian Air Force already has 22 Apache helicopters that it got under a separate deal in 2015, the Indian Army is still waiting for its first batch. The Army believes that adding Apaches to its Aviation Corps will greatly improve its fighting strength, especially near the western border where tension has been high after Operation Sindoor.

The Indian Army Aviation Corps plays a very important role in supporting the ground troops during missions. It provides help in the form of air transport, surveillance, and attack operations. Apart from the Apache helicopters, the Army Aviation Corps also uses several other aircraft and helicopters for different types of operations.

These include:

  • Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv: Made in India and used for transport, rescue, and other missions. These were temporarily grounded earlier this year after a Coast Guard ALH crashed in January. But they were allowed to fly again due to urgent needs after the Pahalgam terror attack.
  • Rudra: An armed version of Dhruv used for attack and close support.
  • Cheetah and Chetak: Light helicopters used for scouting, carrying injured soldiers, and moving goods.
  • Light Combat Helicopter (LCH): Used in high mountains and can perform attack missions.
  • Dornier 228: A small plane used for transporting materials and communication.
  • Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) like Heron and Searcher are used to watch over enemy areas and gather information.
  • Mi-17 helicopters: Used for carrying troops and materials and also for rescue missions.

With the Apache helicopters expected to arrive soon, the Army hopes its aerial support will become even stronger. These helicopters will become a key part of the Indian Army’s defence system and will support its soldiers during important missions in rough and dangerous areas.

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