Indian military considers it a big firepower boost against Pakistan Army
New Delhi, July 17, 2025 – India is set to receive three AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from the United States on July 21, marking a major escalation in its aerial offensive and reconnaissance capabilities along the Pakistan border (NDTV Special).
The three Apaches will land at Hindon Air Force Station near Ghaziabad before being deployed in the desert sector close to Jodhpur to bolster Indian Army defences and target-armour engagement readiness.
Known as “tanks in the air,” the AH-64E is the world’s most advanced attack helicopter, capable of engaging armoured targets, low-flying aircraft, and personnel with Hellfire missiles, 70 mm rockets, and a 30 mm chain gun.
These helicopters are equipped with cutting-edge systems, including 360° fire-control radar, advanced sensors, night-vision navigation, and secure comms, making them ideal for networked, multi-domain battlefield engagement.
The acquisition follows the Indian Air Force’s earlier deal in 2015 for 22 Apaches, which were fully delivered by July 2020. In 2020, a follow-up US$600 million contract was signed for six more, with deliveries initially scheduled for May–June 2024, but stalled by global supply chain challenges.
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In March 2024, the Army Aviation Corps raised its first Apache squadron at Jodhpur, but the actual delivery of Indian Army-allocated Apaches had been delayed repeatedly. In late June 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh urged faster delivery during talks with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.
Once operational, India will field two IAF Apache squadrons—one each at Pathankot and Jorhat—alongside the newly arrived Army helicopters, significantly enhancing layered air-land defence capability.
The outlay is part of a broader ₹62,700 crore (~US$7.5 billion) indigenous helicopter push, including the HAL Prachand LCH for high-altitude operations. However, the Apache remains key for precision strikes, armoured warfare support, and surveillance along the western frontier.