Apache attack helicopters: India to import more from USA

Apache attack helicopters: India to import more from USA

Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains II- International Affairs; GS-III- Security

In News

• In early 2020, India will probablysign a deal with Boeing Company of USAfor additional six AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, estimated to cost around $930 million.
• These are in addition to 22 Apaches already being inducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF).
• It will replace the ageing Russian Mi-35 attack helicopters in service.
• Feature of Apache helicopters are:
  • It is capable of delivering variety of weapons which include fire and forget anti-tank guided missiles
  • Air to ground Hellfire missiles
  • 70 mm Hydra rockets 
  • Air to air Stinger missiles
  • They are day/night, all weather capable 
  • They also have high agility and survivability against battle damage.