First Of 22 Apache Guardian Helicopters Formally Handed Over To IAF At Boeing Facility In Arizona
The Indian Air Force was formally handed over its first Apache Guardian helicopter in a ceremony at a Boeing manufacturing centre in Arizona, reports India Today.
India and the United States (US) had entered into a contract for the sale of 22 AH-64 E (I) Apache helicopters in 2015 in a deal estimated to be worth $1.1 billion. Personnel from the IAF have already received training at US Army base Fort Rucker on how to handle the attack choppers.
The Apache helicopter had been particularly customised to meet the IAF’s requirements; it will have special capabilities in operating in mountainous terrain.
Believed to be the world's most advanced multi-role combat helicopter, Apache is the first ever complete attack helicopter in IAF’s stable. These will significantly bolster the attack capabilities of the Indian Air Force, and add to the Indian might. These will be received in India in semi knocked down (SKD) format, and the platform will then be reassembled in India, re-tested, and then be formally sent to their respective bases.