IAF to Retrieve Stranded Apache Helicopter from 12,000ft Ladakh Peak by Dismantling 400 Parts

An Indian Air Force (IAF) Apache helicopter, stranded in the challenging terrain of Ladakh since an emergency landing in April, has finally been recovered following a complex and arduous operation.

The Boeing Apache, forced to land north of the towering Khardung La pass at an altitude of 12,000 feet, has been meticulously dismantled and is now being transported by road to Leh.

The rescue mission, which spanned several months, showcased the IAF's unwavering resolve and technical expertise in navigating the formidable high-altitude terrain. Airlifting the heavy Apache was deemed impossible due to the limitations posed by the altitude and the weight constraints of the IAF's Chinook helicopters.

Undeterred, a team of specialized personnel embarked on a challenging trek to the remote landing site. After a thorough assessment of the damage, the team embarked on the painstaking task of dismantling the helicopter. Each of the approximately 400 parts was carefully carried by hand to the nearest accessible road, where they were loaded onto trucks for transport to Leh.

With only the airframe and engine remaining at the site, a specialized crane has been deployed. This crane, operated by highly trained mountaineers, will lift the remaining components and meticulously lower them onto a waiting truck using long steel wires, marking the final stage of this remarkable recovery operation.

It is important to note that this incident occurred amidst the ongoing military standoff with China, highlighting the critical role played by the IAF in safeguarding India's borders.

The Apache, known for its formidable attack capabilities against both ground and air targets, is a crucial asset in the IAF's arsenal. The deployment of Apache helicopters in Ladakh underscores India's commitment to maintaining a strong defense posture in the region.

The IAF had procured 22 Apaches from US-based Boeing at a cost of Rs 14,910 crore.

 

[Apocalypse gupta]

why was the apache being operated at such high alti? It is not designed for that. Use prachand at high altitude, since it was designed for that.

 

[beencensured]

why was the apache being operated at such high alti? It is not designed for that. Use prachand at high altitude, since it was designed for that.

It is about 3658 meters is not that high. Another failed American junk that does not meet Indian requirements.

 

[beencensured]

Where was mi26 helicopter to lift as they have been used to lift Chinook.

 

[Anant]

It is about 3658 meters is not that high. Another failed American junk that does not meet Indian requirements.

Have you gone through the accident report that you are making claims again?

 

[Anant]

Where was mi26 helicopter to lift as they have been used to lift Chinook.

Parked at an airfield awaiting major repairs.

 

[Baiju Bhaskaran]

Apache is not designed for high altitude. Why was it there. Prachand is designed for high altitude operations.

 

[neil]

why was the apache being operated at such high alti? It is not designed for that. Use prachand at high altitude, since it was designed for that.

Maybe they were trying to push the limits...to identify where the operational limit is for that chopper.

 

[Apocalypse gupta]

Maybe they were trying to push the limits...to identify where the operational limit is for that chopper.

you dont push limits with aircrafts, especially in mountainous areas. Are you crazy? If something goes wrong, it is certain death.

 

[neil]

you dont push limits with aircrafts, especially in mountainous areas. Are you crazy? If something goes wrong, it is certain death.

So how do they determine the exact limits of permissible operational envelope, if not by actual field test? The risk to man & machine can be mitigated to an extent by careful and gradual increment in terrain height, load, etc.

 

[Bharat007]

Disaster. Why field pricy Heavy Attack choppers in Himalayas? It will be waste of money by purchasing such helis for use in high altitude.

 

[kurtwallis wallis]

Just being scavenged for spare parts now. ONE Apache is totally destroyed by IAF!!!!

 

[Akshat]

why was the apache being operated at such high alti? It is not designed for that. Use prachand at high altitude, since it was designed for that.

There are not enough Prachand. None have been armed enough. And accidents are a part and parcel of life. Apaches perform really well at these altitudes.

 

[NSR]

Apache is an extremely expensive attack helicopter and must be meticulously maintained to make sure it performs flawlessly without any accidents.
I hope that Indian Army or IAF will get it restored to its original shape soon.

India must go full steam ahead with its own Prachand LCH production and fielding.

 

[Sandeep]

Apache is not designed for high altitude. Why was it there. Prachand is designed for high altitude operations.

To use on the LAC in some areas. Also we don’t know the reason for the hard landing.

 

[Sandeep]

Parked at an airfield awaiting major repairs.

No it’s currently getting overhauled in India as a deal was made earlier this year.

 

[Sandeep]

This was the only viable solution really. They can’t leave an advanced attack helicopter as a sitting target and leaving it out in the open for the heavy rain, cold and snow which will decrease the lifespan of some parts, components, engine etc or it will require some heavy maintenance and repairs.

It would have been ideal if we could have used our Mi-26 heavy lift helicopter but unfortunately they are being overhauled and modernised.

 

[Sandeep]

So how do they determine the exact limits of permissible operational envelope, if not by actual field test? The risk to man & machine can be mitigated to an extent by careful and gradual increment in terrain height, load, etc.

The manufacturer will physically test the frames, fuselage, parts, components etc to determine the strength, wear and tear, metal fatigue, stress tests or weight tests etc.

 

[Sridhar]

It is about 3658 meters is not that high. Another failed American junk that does not meet Indian requirements.

How many US junks do you know ? Do you think US military are fools to order or operate hundreds of Apaches ? Israelis operate Apaches and has seen great success.
Don't pass comments just for the heck of it.
Prove Apache is a junk with irrefutable proof.

 

[Dipesh Debnath]

Each armament of an attack helicopter can be attached to a drone and thus create 4-6 drones that can jointly do the task of a helicopter in swarm mode. Ukraine is trying yia concept with naval drones.time to think of future war scenario and develop futuristic items.helicopter is now obsolete as missiles have become cheaper , more in number and easy to carry and fire.