India’s defense system is set to undergo a significant upgrade with the acquisition of six AH-64E Apache attack helicopters. Currently, the Indian Army Aviation Corps is operating smaller Cheetah and Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH), both weighing under five tonnes. These new additions will stand alongside 22 Apaches being inducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF), replacing the Russian Mi-35 attack helicopters currently in service.
AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopter
The AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopter, sourced from Boeing’s production facility in Mesa, Arizona, USA, is primarily recognized as an all-purpose attack helicopter. It is lauded for its weather-resistant capabilities, ease of maintenance, outstanding agility and durability against battle damage.
One of the notable attributes of this helicopter is its ability to execute precision attacks at standoff ranges, even in hostile airspace littered with threats from the ground. It is equipped with data uplinking and networking capabilities that enable it to transmit and receive battlefield images. The helicopter can launch fire and forget anti-tank guided missiles, air-to-air missiles, and rockets, providing versatility in network-centric aerial warfare. Furthermore, it is equipped with a fire control radar offering 360° coverage and a nose-mounted sensor suite for target acquisition and night vision systems.
Key Features Of AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopter
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Precision Attacks | Can carry out precise attacks at standoff ranges in hostile airspace. |
| Battlefield Imaging | Able to transmit and receive battlefield images through data uplinking and networking. |
| Missiles and rockets | Can shoot fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missiles, air to air missiles, and rockets. |
| Fire Control Radar | Carries a fire control radar with 360° coverage. |
| Night Vision Systems | Equipped with a nose-mounted sensor suite for target acquisition and night vision systems. |
Cheetah Helicopter
The Indian Army Aviation Corps also operates the high-performance Cheetah Helicopter, designed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This five-seater helicopter is identical to LAMA SA 315B Helicopter from Eurocopter, France. The Cheetah Helicopter holds the world record for high altitude flying across all categories of helicopters. This multi-purpose helicopter is ideal for commuting, surveillance, logistics support, observation, rescue operations, and high-altitude missions.
Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH-DHRUV)
The Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH-DHRUV) is an indigenously designed and developed twin-engine, multi-role, new generation helicopter belonging to the 5.5-ton weight class. Various Dhruv models currently operate under the classifications Dhruv Mk-I, Mk-II, Mk-III & Mk-IV. These helicopters showcase the capability of indigenous development in aviation technology.
