The Indian Air Force (IAF) currently operates 22 AH-64E Apache helicopters, which were inducted into service between 2019 and 2020. Recently, the Indian Army has taken a significant step by adding six AH-64Es to its fleet, marking the Army’s first direct procurement of these sophisticated attack helicopters designed for Army Aviation. This development is anticipated to improve operational synergy and coordination between the Indian Army and Air Force, enhancing their collective capabilities during joint missions.
However, the delivery of these helicopters has encountered delays, reflecting the broader challenges that global defense supply chains face. Factors such as geopolitical tensions and disruptions stemming from the ongoing pandemic have further complicated these supply chains, highlighting a growing need for self-reliance within India’s defense manufacturing sector. This push for autonomy aligns with national initiatives like Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, aimed at bolstering domestic production capabilities.
To advance this objective, Boeing has partnered with Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL) located in Hyderabad to manufacture Apache fuselages. This collaboration is a crucial step in reducing dependency on foreign suppliers and building a robust domestic defense industry.
The AH-64E Apache helicopter itself is a formidable asset in modern warfare. It is equipped with twin turbo-shaft engines, a tail-wheel landing gear, and a tandem cockpit accommodating two crew members. The helicopter boasts advanced nose-mounted sensors that enhance target detection capabilities, especially in low-visibility conditions. Armament on the Apache includes a 30 mm M230 chain gun situated under the front fuselage, along with four hardpoints on its stub wings which can carry an array of munitions such as AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and Hydra 70 rocket pods. Designed with redundancy in mind, the Apache is built to withstand combat damage, ensuring mission effectiveness.
Boeing markets the AH-64E as the globe’s most advanced multi-mission attack helicopter, tailored for a variety of operational theaters. Its performance characteristics include superior thrust and lift, advanced digital communication features, enhanced survivability, and sophisticated decision-support systems that improve pilot situational awareness.
Since its inception, the AH-64 Apache has proven to be a valuable asset, with the first AH-64A being delivered to the US Army in January 1984. To date, over 2,700 Apaches have been delivered across multiple countries, including Egypt, Greece, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, the Netherlands, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the UAE, and the UK. Cumulatively, these helicopters have amassed more than five million flight hours, with about 1.3 million of those hours conducted in combat operations, underscoring their operational relevance and versatility in various conflict environments.
