Boeing Apache AH-64 Helicopter: In a big boost to its air to ground to attack capabilities, Indian Air Force received its first Apache Guardian attack helicopter at Boeing’s production facility in Mesa, Arizona, USA on Friday.
IAF had signed a contract with US Government and Boeing in September 2015 for procuring 22 Apache helicopters.
Induction of AH-64 E (I) helicopter is a major milestone towards modernisation of Indian Air Force’s helicopter fleet. The helicopter has been customized to suit IAF’s future requirements and would have significant capability in mountainous terrain.
Air Marshal A S Butola received the first Apache Attack Helicopter in USA.
The helicopter has the capability to carry out precision attacks at standoff ranges and operate in hostile airspace with threats from ground.
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The ability of these helicopters, to transmit and receive the battlefield picture, to and from the weapon systems through data networking makes it a lethal acquisition.
These attack helicopters will provide significant edge in any future joint operations in support of land forces.
The first batch of these helicopters is scheduled to be shipped to India by July this year. Selected aircrew and ground crew have undergone training at the training facilities at US Army base Fort Rucker, Alabama.
These personnel will lead the operationalisation of the Apache fleet in the IAF.
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Air Marshal AS Butola received the first Apache helicopter in a ceremony at Boeing production facility.
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