The Indian Air Force (IAF) has been operating 22 AH-64E Apache helicopters since their induction between 2019 and 2020. The Indian Army’s addition of six Apaches, through a contract signed in 2020, marks its first direct acquisition of these advanced attack helicopters for Army Aviation. This move is expected to enhance coordination and joint operational capabilities between the Army and Air Force.
The delay in delivery shows the challenges faced by global defense supply chains, which have been impacted by geopolitical tensions and disruptions caused by the pandemic. These challenges emphasize the need for self-reliance in defense manufacturing, aligning with initiatives like Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Boeing’s partnership with Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL) in Hyderabad to produce Apache fuselages is a significant step toward achieving this goal.
About AH-64E Apache helicopter
The Boeing AH-64 Apache is a powerful American attack helicopter equipped with twin turbo-shaft engines, a tail-wheel landing gear, and a tandem cockpit for two crew members. It features advanced nose-mounted sensors for target detection and night vision. The Apache is armed with a 30 mm M230 chain gun under its front fuselage and has four hardpoints on stub wings to carry weapons like AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and Hydra 70 rocket pods. Its design includes redundant systems to ensure it can withstand combat damage.
Boeing describes the AH-64E as the world’s most advanced multi-mission attack helicopter, capable of handling a wide range of operations. It offers superior thrust and lift, digital communication capabilities, improved survivability, and advanced decision-making support for pilots.
The first AH-64A Apache was delivered to the US Army in January 1984. Since then, over 2,700 Apaches have been delivered to the US and other countries, including Egypt, Greece, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, the Netherlands, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the UAE, and the UK. Together, these helicopters have flown more than five million hours, with 1.3 million hours in combat.