Indian Army Inducts First Batch of AH-64E Apache Helicopters

On July 22, 2025, the Indian Army received its first batch of three AH-64E Apache attack helicopters at the Hindon Airbase, marking a milestone in its combat aviation modernisation. These helicopters will soon join the Army Aviation Corps squadron in Jodhpur, significantly enhancing battlefield readiness along India’s western border.

It was in 2020 when India signed a US$ 600 million deal with the United States for six AH-64E Apaches specifically for the Indian Army, following a 2017 approval by the Defence Ministry. This order supplements the Indian Air Force’s earlier acquisition of 22 Apaches under a 2015 contract, whose deliveries were completed by mid-2020. The Army’s contract was valued at ₹4,168 crore, with deliveries slated to begin in 2024.

Delivery and Induction Process

Upon arrival at Hindon, the three helicopters underwent Joint Receipt Inspection (JRI) to verify airworthiness and systems integrity. After completion of inspections, they will be formally handed over to the Army Aviation Corps and ferried to their Jodhpur base for immediate operational deployment. The remaining three Apaches are expected to arrive by the end of 2025, completing the six-helicopter order.

Batch	Quantity	Arrival Month/Year	Base
First	3	July 2025	Hindon
Second	3	By end 2025	Hindon → Jodhpur

AH-64E Apache: Key Capabilities

• Twin-engine, tandem-seat attack platform equipped with state-of-the-art avionics and sensor suites for all-weather, day-night operations.
• Armament includes laser- and radar-guided AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, 70 mm Hydra rocket pods, air-to-air Stinger missiles, and a 30 mm M230 chain gun with 1,200 rounds.
• Longbow radar above the main rotor provides 360° target detection and fire control, enabling precision anti-armour and close-air-support missions.

Advanced Operational Features

The AH-64E Apache Guardian integrates network-centric warfare capabilities, linking onboard sensors with off-board assets to deliver rapid target acquisition and precision engagement. Its enhanced digital connectivity and open-systems architecture allow seamless integration into multi-domain operations, making it a force multiplier in high-intensity conflict scenario. 

Strategic Impact

Introducing Apaches into the Indian Army fleet bolsters India’s deterrence posture by providing “tank-in-the-air” capabilities against armoured threats. These helicopters fill critical capability gaps in rugged and high-altitude theatres, complementing the Indian Air Force’s own Apache squadrons and strengthening joint air–ground operations. This induction underscores a broader push to modernise India’s defence forces with cutting-edge technologies.

As the remaining helicopters join service later this year, the Army Aviation Corps will ramp up training exercises and joint drills to fully harness the Apache’s capabilities. Longer term, the platform’s interoperability with UAVs and light attack helicopters will further diversify India’s aerial combat toolkit, strengthening readiness across multiple theatres of operation.