Outlook Business Team
After a 15-month delay, the Indian Army is finally set to receive its first AH‑64E Apache attack helicopters. Their arrival marks a significant upgrade in frontline capability and firepower along the western border.
India signed a $600 million defence deal with the United States in 2020 to acquire six AH‑64E Apache helicopters for the Army. These are separate from the 22 already inducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF).
According to the deal, India was to receive six Apache helicopters in two batches of three. The first set was expected by May–June 2024. But global supply chain issues delayed delivery to December. Technical problems in the US caused further postponement.
There’s progress at last. Defence Ministry sources told The Indian Express that the first batch of three Apache helicopters could land within weeks. The remaining three are expected to arrive later this year.
Renewed momentum came after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth. He urged faster Apache deliveries and flagged the urgent need for GE F404 engines for India’s LCA Tejas jets.
All six Army Apaches will be stationed in Jodhpur, enabling rapid deployment along the western border. Their arrival boosts India’s response capability after Operation Sindoor, targeting terror camps across the Line of Control.
The AH-64E Apache blends speed, precision, and firepower. With 22 already in IAF service, the Army’s new fleet will support frontline troops directly, offering close air cover in challenging border terrain.
The new Apaches will complement existing helicopters like Prachand, Dhruv, Rudra, Cheetah, Chetak and Mi-17s. Together, they’ll form a versatile, multi-layered Army Aviation Corps for combat, transport and high-altitude missions.