The Indian Army raises first Apache Squadron in Jodhpur

In a significant move to strengthen India’s defence capability in the western sector, the Indian Army raised its first Apache helicopter squadron equipped with an Apache AH-64 attack helicopter in Jodhpur on 15 March 2024. The Indian Army’s Aviation Corp will operate the 6 Apache Helicopter squadron.

The Indian Air Force currently operates 22 Apache AH-64 attack helicopters.

The squadron was raised in the presence of  Director General Indian Army Aviation Lt Gen Ajay Suri, officials from  Boeing and other senior officials and Indian Army officials. 

The Indian government contracted to buy 6 additional Apache helicopters for the Indian Army from the United States in 2018. 

These helicopters are expected to arrive in India in May 2024. Initially, the helicopters will land at the Hindon airbase of the Indian Air Force in Uttar Pradesh and then be finally deployed in Jodhpur.

induction of the Apache helicopter is part of the modernisation programme of the Army’s Aviation Corp. Last year, the Aviation Cop inducted its first Prachand squadron, with 20mm turret guns, 70mm rocket systems and air-to-air missiles, at Missamari, Assam. Prachand is a Light Combat Helicopter that has been developed indigenously. 

Apache Helicopter 

Apache helicopter, also called 'tanks in the air,' is one of the most advanced combat helicopters manufactured by the American company Boeing. The helicopter has a maximum speed of  280 km/h.

The Apache helicopter AH-64E is fitted with an advanced night vision system and missiles capable of striking 138 targets in a minute.

The helicopter is armed with AGM 114 Hellfire anti-tank missiles designed to destroy armoured vehicles like tanks. The helicopter's Stinger missiles can neutralise aerial threats, and the Hydra-70 unguided missiles can effectively neutralise ground-based threats.

Indian Army Aviation Corps 

The Indian Army Aviation Corps is the youngest Corps of the Indian Army. It was raised on November 1, 1986. It was earlier an Air Observation Post of the Indian Army, part of the Indian Artillery.

The main roles of the AAC on the modern battlefield are reconnaissance, observation, casualty evacuation and logistic support, including carrying underslung loads, combat search and rescue (CSAR) and Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR). It can also act as an airborne command post and communications relay station. It plays a vital role in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations.

Military helicopters are becoming a key element in the success of operations and with fast-developing technology, they will gain more importance.

The motto of the Aviationtion Corps: Suveg and Sudridh (Swift and Sure)

Headquarters: New Delhi