Indian Air Force inducts 8 new Apache attack choppers
The Indian Air Force will add the much-needed lethal punch to its attack capabilities with the induction of eight US-made Apache attack choppers Apache AH-64E (I).
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According to analysts, the Apache is a stealthy, versatile machine designed for all kinds of missions. It comes equipped with laser and infrared systems for day-night operations and is armed with air- to-surface Hellfire missiles, 70 mm rockets and automatic cannon.
Indian Air Force has signed a contract for 22 Apache helicopters from the U.S. government and Boeing in September 2015. The multi-billion-dollar contract said that the helicopters will be sent to IAF by 2020. The Defence Ministry approved to buy 6 Apache helicopters along with weapons systems from Boeing for the cost of Rs.4,168 crore in 2017.
US handed over the first batch of the AH-64E Apache attack choppers of the 22 helicopters in the month of July.
About AH-64E Apache:
The AH-64E Apache is one of the world’s multi-job battle helicopters flown by the US Army. The helicopter is equipped for an assortment of weapons that incorporate air-to-ground Hellfire rockets in 70 mm Hydra rockets and aerial Stinger rockets.
It has a spectrum of capabilities virtually for any mission requirement. The helicopters have greater thrust and lift, joint digital operability, improved survivability, and cognitive decision. It conveys shoot control radar which has a 360-degree inclusion and nose-mounted sensor suite for objective securing and night vision frameworks.
About Indian Air Force:
IAF was founded in October 1932. It is headquartered at New Delhi. The Commander-in-Chief of IAF is President Ram Nath Kovind. The Chief of Air Staff (CAS) is Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh and the Vice Chief of Air Staff (VCAS) is Air Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria.
The Air Force is a part of the Indian Armed Forces. IAF is responsible to secure the Indian airspace and to conduct aerial warfare during armed conflict.