New inductions swaying high! Indian welcomes first batch of eight US-made Apache AH-64E attack helicopters

Pathankot, September 03: Viewing to give a major boost to its combat capabilities, the Indian Air Force here on Tuesday moved up inducting eight US-made Apache AH-64E attack helicopters.

 

"The aircraft were formally inducted at the induction ceremony at Pathankot Air Force station with Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa as the chief guest", the IAF confirmed.

 

 

The AH-64E Apache is one of the world's most advanced multi-role combat helicopters, and is flown by the US Army. "Eight of the Apache attack helicopters inducted into the IAF, that will enhance the force's combat capabilities", the IAF noted.

 

"It is one of the most fierce attack helicopters in the world. It is capable of performing many missions, today with the induction of Apache AH-64E, the Indian Air Force has upgraded its inventory to the latest generation of attack helicopters", Air Chief B S Dhanoa said. 

The ceremonial key was handed over by the Boeing company. The IAF had signed a multi-billion dollar contract with the US government and Boeing Ltd in September 2015 for 22 Apache helicopters.

The Boeing AH-64 Apache is an American twin-turboshaft attack helicopter with a tailwheel-type landing gear arrangement and a tandem cockpit for a crew of two. It features a nose-mounted sensor suite for target acquisition and night vision systems.