Indian Army establishes squadron for its Apache Helicopters in Jodhpur before actual delivery

In preparation for the delivery of six Apache helicopters from the United States of America (USA) starting in May 2024, the Indian Army has established a squadron for the heavy-duty choppers in Jodhpur, along the western front with Pakistan.

The squadron was raised in the presence of the Army Aviation Director General Lt. Gen Ajay Singh Suri and other officials. According to the officer, the delivery initially scheduled to begin in February has been slightly delayed, with the first three Apache now expected in May 2024.

“The delivery was to commence from February 2024, but it has been slightly delayed. The first three Apaches will now come in May,” an officer said to an Indian media agency. The Indian Air Force has already inducted 22 Boeing manufactured Apache helicopters under a Rs 13,952 crores deal signed with the US in September 2015. The Army under a separate Rs 5691 crores deal inked in February 2020will receive six choppers.

The Apache Helicopters often referred to as tanks in the air are equipped with Stinger Air to Air Missiles, Hellfire Longbow Air to Ground Missiles, guns and rockets. They are primarily intended to provide integrated combat aviation cover for the strike corps of the Indian Army. Both Indian Army and the IAF are set to induct 156 indigenous Prachanda Light Helicopter (LCH) in the coming years.

These helicopters are capable of offensive operations in high altitude areas such as the Siachen Glacier and eastern Ladakh. Fifteen such choppers (10 for the IAF and 5 for the Army) have already been inducted under the first Rs 3,887 crore contract for them.

The Apache AH-64E is recognised as the world’s most advanced combat helicopter, featuring an advanced night vision system and capability to arm missiles that can strike 138 targets in a minute. With a maximum speed of 280km/hr, this helicopter is a formidable force in the sky.

Equipped with AGM 114 Hellfire anti-tank missiles, and Stinger missiles, the Apache AH-64E is prepared to handle threats from land as well as aerial domain. The Hellfire missiles are particularly useful and effective against armoured vehicles like Tanks and BMPs. While the Stinger Missiles are designed to neutralise airborne threats. Additionally, the helicopter is armed with Hydra-70 unguided missiles, which can effectively target ground-based threats.