IAF inducts AH-64E Apache attack helicopter to boost its power

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For Indian Air Force, the induction of eight Apache helicopters into its kitty will boost its combative powers manifolds. The Apache attack helicopters, acquired from the United States, were inducted into the Air Force at Pathankot airbase on Tuesday morning amidst media glare. With the induction, India has become the 14th nation in the world to be operating the Apache attack helicopters.

Air Force chief Marshal BS Dhanoa was the chief guest at the ceremony at Pathankot airbase. The airbase was full of activity as a `pooja’ ceremony was performed by Air Force chief and Western Air Commander Air Marshal R Nambiar before the induction. IAF chief Dhanoa said, “The Apache helicopters have been modified according to the needs of the IAF. We are very happy with the scheduled delivery of the helicopters on time.”

Briefing about the induction, IAF spokesperson Anupam Banerjee reportedly stated that it was a ceremonial induction of the aircraft into IAF. As of now, IAF has 8 aircraft. 22 aircraft will come in phased manner and all will be inducted into the IAF. “We had attack helicopters earlier, but this aircraft brings in lethal firepower with great accuracy,” he stated.

Highlights of Apache Chopper

The AH-64E Apache is one of the world’s most advanced multi-role combat helicopters and is flown by the US Army.The choppers will replace the the Mi-35 fleet. It is equipped with laser and infrared systems for day-night operations and armed with air- to-surface Hellfire missiles, 70 mm rockets and automatic cannon. The choppers is likely to be used for ferrying heavy loads in the mountainous region of Ladakh and other areas for the Army and Air Force requirements.

The choppers have modern EW capabilities to provide versatility to helicopters in a network centric aerial warfare. In fact, Apaches have been an integral part of several historic campaigns across the globe. These aircraft have been modified specifically to suit the exacting standards demanded by IAF. ” I am happy to note that the delivery schedule is on time with eight helicopters already being delivered,” said Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa, Chief of Air Staff.

Timeline for arrival of Apache in India, what it means for IAF?

The IAF will start operating a fleet of 22 Apaches by 2020. The choppers have been bought from US defence giant Boeing. These first deliveries of eight units were ahead of schedule.
The addition of the Apache fleet will significantly enhance the force’s combat capabilities as the chopper has been customised to suit IAF’s future requirements.

What has Boeing to say about Apache Choppers?

Boeing said the AH-64E has the latest technology insertions, maintaining its standing as the world’s best attack helicopter. Boeing has delivered more than 2,200 Apaches to customers around the world since the aircraft entered production and India is the 14th nation to select it for its military.