India's Skies Set To Welcome Lethal Apache Helicopters, To Be Deployed On Pakistan Border

The United States will deliver the first batch of long-awaited AH-64E Apache attack helicopters to India next week, NDTV reported.

The report claims that India will deploy military choppers along the Pakistan border. The advanced helicopter will arrive at the Indian Air Force's (IAF) Hindon Air Force Station.

The Apache is considered the most modern attack helicopter, replacing the ageing Mi-35 fleet used for assault and anti-armour operations. The AH-64E variant is equipped with cutting-edge communication, navigation, sensor, and weapon systems, according to a report in The New Indian Express.

The Indian Army had raised its first Apache squadron in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, over 15 months ago, but the delivery was delayed due to supply chain disruptions and shifting global geopolitical dynamics.

The IAF already operates two Apache squadrons-one in Pathankot (Punjab) and another in Jorhat (Assam). The IAF had initially procured 22 Apaches under a 2015 deal with the US and Boeing, with all deliveries completed by July 2020.

Later, during former US President Donald Trump's visit to India in 2020, New Delhi signed a $600 million deal for six additional Apaches for the Army. The first batch was originally scheduled for delivery between May and June 2024, but faced delays.

The Indian Army received its first AH-64E Apache from Hyderabad-based Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL), a joint venture between Tata Advanced Systems and Boeing, in 2023.

Beyond offensive roles, these helicopters will also enhance reconnaissance, security, and peacekeeping missions.

It is being delivered months after India launched Operation Sindoor following the Pahalgam terrorist attack in Kashmir. The Indian armed forces hit 9 terrorist infrastructure sites, killing over 100 terrorists.

Also, Indian managed to neutralise Pakistan's retaliation and both countries decided on the cessation of hostilities following a phone call from Islamabad.

Can't Win Today's Warfare With Yesterday's Weapon Systems

Meanwhile, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan on Wednesday stressed the importance of modernising defence capabilities. Speaking at a workshop on UAV and Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) indigenisation in New Delhi, the CDS said, "We can't win today's warfare with yesterday's weapon systems," Anil Chauhan said.

He claimed that India must reduce its reliance on foreign niche technologies critical to its strategic missions.