Army receives first batch of Apache Helicopters from US

NEW DELHI

In a landmark development for India’s defense capabilities, the Indian Army has taken delivery of three AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from the United States as part of a ₹5,691 crore (approximately USD 600 million) contract signed in 2020.

The helicopters arrived on July 22, 2025, at the Hindon Air Force Station near Delhi, completing a delivery process delayed by more than 15 months due to supply chain issues and technical hurdles on the U.S. end. These Apaches are to be deployed in Jodhpur, specifically to provide close air support and counter-armour capability along the India–Pakistan border .

Often termed "tanks in the air", AH-64E helicopters feature advanced targeting systems, Hellfire missiles, rockets, and a 30mm cannon—making them a formidable addition to India's aerial arsenal . The original plan envisaged delivery of six helicopters in two batches of three by mid-2024. However, the actual handover of the first batch only occurred in mid-2025, following repeated delay cycles. The remaining trio is expected to be delivered later this year .

With pilots and ground crews already trained in the U.S., the newly inducted Apache squadron is poised to be fully operational immediately. This induction significantly enhances India’s ability to conduct precision strikes and surveillance missions along its western frontier