After a prolonged wait and several delays, India is set to receive its first batch of three Apache AH-64E attack helicopters from the United States by mid-July 2025. This delivery marks a significant boost for the Indian Army’s Aviation Corps, which plans to deploy these state-of-the-art combat helicopters along the sensitive western border with Pakistan.
The Apache deal, valued at approximately $600 million (Rs 5,691 crore), was signed in February 2020 with the expectation that all six helicopters would be delivered by mid-2024. However, supply chain disruptions and technical issues—including concerns over power generator failures—led to a delay of over 15 months. Diplomatic interventions and recent high-level talks between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have ensured that the first three helicopters will arrive by July 15, with the remaining three scheduled for delivery in November 2025.
The new Apaches will be stationed at the Army’s first dedicated Apache squadron in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, which was raised in March 2024 specifically for operations along the western front. This squadron, although fully staffed and trained, has been awaiting the arrival of the helicopters to become operational.
The deployment is seen as a direct response to ongoing security challenges and the need for enhanced offensive and defensive capabilities along the Pakistan border, especially in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor and ongoing cross-border tensions.
The addition of these Apaches will significantly enhance the Indian Army’s air-to-ground offensive capabilities, particularly on the western and northern frontiers. The Army’s new assets will complement the existing fleet of 22 Apache helicopters already operated by the Indian Air Force, further strengthening India’s deterrence and rapid response options.
