Human Interest

Amid border tensions between India and China, Boeing completed the final delivery of Apache attack helicopters and Chinook heavy-lift helicopter to the IAF.

  • Boeing completed the deliveries of the 22 AH64-E Apache and 15 Chinook helicopters to India
  • India is one of 17 nations to select the Apache and has the most advanced variant
  • India has deployed AH64-E Apache and Chinook in Ladakh

New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) received the delivery of all new AH-64E Apache and CH-47F(I) Chinook military helicopters today. The final five of the 22 Apache attack helicopters were handed over to the IAF at Air Force Station, Hindon.
Earlier in March, Boeing had handed over the last five of 15 CH-47F (I) Chinook heavy-lift helicopters to the IAF, read a statement.
India is one of 17 nations to select the Apache and has opted for the most advanced version of the attack helicopter. The variant ordered by the IAF is also operational in the United States and many other nations.
IAF had ordered 22 AH-64E Apache
The attack helicopter is highly suited for reconnaissance, security, peacekeeping operations, and lethal attack in various environments and conditions.
Twenty defence forces around the world have bought Chinooks. Considered the world’s most reliable and efficient heavy-lift helicopter, Chinook can operate in any kind of climatic conditions including altitude.
The Ministry of Defence had finalised its order with Boeing for the production, training and support of 22 AH-64E Apache and 15 CH-47F (I) Chinook helicopters in September 2015.
Apache, Chinook deployed in Ladakh
Former IAF chief BS Dhanoa had called Chinook a national asset which would greatly bolster the heavy-lift capabilities of the air force with quick deployment of men and material whenever needed.
The contract between India and the US was signed for the acquisition of six Apaches for the Indian Army during US President Donald Trump’s visit to New Delhi.
During border tensions between India and China, the IAF had to deploy its assets including Apache and Chinook at forward bases in Ladakh. While Apache tracked and monitored the movement of Chinese troops, Chinook played a critical role in the movement of men and equipment at the icy heights of Ladakh.