Jodhpur to Host India's First Apache Helicopter Squadron

JODHPUR, INDIA – India's defense capabilities are set for a major boost as the Indian Army Aviation Corps prepares to integrate its first squadron of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters. The squadron will officially be raised in Jodhpur on March 15, bolstering the Army's operational capacity and marking a significant stride in India's defense modernization efforts.

The initial batch of six Apache helicopters is scheduled for delivery from the United States in May. Their addition reflects India's commitment to strengthening its defense posture with advanced military hardware. The Apaches will significantly enhance the Indian Army's aerial firepower and reconnaissance capabilities.

In a move designed to optimize resources, the Indian Army and Indian Air Force will collaborate on the Apache fleet's maintenance and upkeep. Ground crews from both branches will receive cross-training, ensuring streamlined maintenance for the aircraft. This demonstrates the Indian defense establishment's focus on operational readiness and effective resource management.

The introduction of Apache attack helicopters is a strategically important step for India amidst an evolving regional security landscape. The Apache, with its advanced sensors, weapons systems, and all-weather capabilities, is a formidable asset in modern combat scenarios. Its precision strike capabilities, close air support options, and anti-tank warfare expertise add considerable tactical flexibility and force projection for the Indian Army.

 

[Ramsses CDXX]

A great American flying machine❗

 

[NSR]

It is high time for IAF to lose its stubbornness and cede all Apaches to Indian Army.
IAF can't hoard their Apaches in hangars with periodic spit and shine polishing.
Apaches and Chinooks should be in the field with the local commanders for instant deployments to counter enemies and terrorists.

IAF, Watch some war movies and learn and give up your turf fight on Apaches.
IAF should make do with LCH/Rudra and LUH Dhruv helicopters for base needs.

 

[Kira]

The IAFs Apaches in their tipnis grey "camo" with some olive parts certainly are not easy on the eyes and look weird and AI generated.

 

[Apocalypse gupta]

It is high time for IAF to lose its stubbornness and cede all Apaches to Indian Army.

They can have a role with army as well as air force. Army choppers do army support things while air force choppers can take offensive action separately.

USAF does not operate attack helicopters because they have large number of other ground attack systems like A-10, many types of UCAVs etc. IAF does not have those.

 

[Apocalypse gupta]

May you take out hundreds of pakistani and chinese tanks. All the best. I am wondering what they will name this sqadron

 

[GMR]

Hope IA does not forget to order Prachand ...

 

[ABHIJIT APSINGIKAR]

Hope IA does not forget to order Prachand ...

As of now Prachand is just an armed scout helicopter. Without a functional anti tank guided missile its cannot be compared to Apache.

 

[Sandeep]

As of now Prachand is just an armed scout helicopter. Without a functional anti tank guided missile its cannot be compared to Apache.

The Prachand already uses the Dhruvastra ATGM on it

 

[ABHIJIT APSINGIKAR]

The Prachand already uses the Dhruvastra ATGM on it

No it does not. Its under trials and is not under production. The last test happened about 3 years back in 2021-2022, but since then there are no updates on this project, which suggests there were issues during test trials and required resolution before further testing.

 

[Sandeep]

India needed these attack helicopters as the Russian helicopters are set to retire soon and they needed to be modernised completely. These should be the last attack helicopters that we import as these are very expensive. India should reverse engineer these helicopters and technology to learn from it as much as possible so we can use it for our future armed IMRH.

It would be better to develop a brand new dedicated medium attack helicopter like the Apache type rather than making the IMRH into a dual use transport and a attack helicopter like the Rudra ALH. The IMRH should stay as it is and the medium attack helicopter would have better technology, better fighting capabilities, modern equipment and latest weapons.

 

[Aayush Pratap]

Initial batch? More on the way?

 

[Pink Panther]

A great American flying machine❗

Yes, army needs another 5 more squadrons of these heavy attack helicopters, these should not be compared or confused with Prachand LCH.

 

[Sunnyj]

PA , PLA running to buy Stinger, Kornet-E, FN-16, Anza, Qw-12 etc. IA needs cheap expendable drones.