NEW DELHI, July 22: American aerospace major Boeing on Tuesday delivered three Apache attack choppers to the Indian Army with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh describing it as a significant step towards strengthening India’s defence capabilities.
The company delivered the AH-64E Apaches choppers as part of a Rs 4,168 crore contract to supply six helicopters to the Indian Army.
The AH-64 Apache is one of the world’s most advanced multi-role combat helicopters and is flown by the US Army.“The arrival of the first batch of Apache helicopters for the Indian Army is a significant step towards strengthening India’s defence capabilities.“These advanced helicopters will enhance the Army Aviation wing’s operational effectiveness, specially in challenging terrains. A proud moment reflecting our commitment to modernising the Armed Forces,” Singh said in a social media post.
The Army described the delivery of the first batch of choppers as a “milestone moment” for the force.
“These state-of-the-art platforms will bolster the operational capabilities of the Indian Army significantly,” it said.
In 2020, Boeing completed delivery of 22 E-model Apaches to the Indian Air Force and signed a contract to supply six AH-64Es for the Indian Army.
The delivery of the Indian Army’s Apaches was scheduled to begin in 2024.
The IAF had signed a multi-billion dollar contract with the US government and Boeing Ltd in September. (PTI)
