The Indian Army is preparing to induct six AH-64 Apache attack helicopters armed with Stinger air-to-air missiles, Hellfire Longbow air-to-ground missiles, guns, and rockets, under the Rs 5691 crore deal inked with the US in February 2020.
The deliveries of the helicopters, which are often referred to as “tanks in the air,” will take place between February and June next year.
These will follow 22 such helicopters already inducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) under the Rs 13952 crore deal inked in September 2015.
The new induction comes even as the Army and IAF have finalised a plan to order 156 more indigenous ‘Prachand’ light combat helicopters from DPSU Hindustan Aeronautics, which are capable of offensive operations in high-altitude areas like Siachen Glacier and eastern Ladakh.
Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/
About AH-64E Apache attack helicopters
The AH-64 Apache is the world’s most advanced multi-role combat helicopter.
Used by the U.S. Army and a growing number of international defence forces, India is the 16th nation to select the Apache.
The AH-64E is an advanced multi-mission helicopter with the latest technology insertions, maintaining its standing as the world’s best attack helicopter.
It is the only available combat helicopter with a spectrum of capabilities for virtually any mission requirement, including greater thrust and lift, joint digital operability, improved survivability and cognitive decision aiding.
AH-64E Apache Technical Specifications
| Standard Crew | 2 |
| Length | 48.16 ft. (14.68 m) |
| Height | 15.49 ft. (4.72 m) |
| Rotor Diameter | 48 ft. (14.63 m) |
| Primary Mission Gross Weight | 15,075 lb. (6,838 kg) |
| Maximum Operating Weight | 23,000 lb. (10,432 kg) |
| Maximum Rate of Climb | 2,800+ ft. (853+ m) per minute |
| Maximum Level Flight Speed | 150+ knots (279+ kph) |
| Service Ceiling | 20,000 ft. (6,096 m) |
| Ordnance | 16 HELLFIRE missiles; 76 2.75-inch rockets and 1,200 30 mm chain gun rounds |
| Rate of Fire | 600-650 rounds per minute |
