Aakanksha Jetley, Pune
In a significant move, American aerospace giant Boeing has confirmed the commencement of the production of Apache helicopters for the Indian Army. The business plans to supply a total of six AH-64E Apache helicopters to the Indian Army.
The AH-64 Apache is one of the world’s most modern multi-role combat helicopters and is widely utilised by the United States Army. Boeing announced that the manufacture of Apache helicopters for the Indian Army has begun at its Mesa, Arizona factory.
Earlier this year, Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL) achieved a significant milestone by delivering the first AH-64 Apache fuselage to the Indian Army. The fuselage was built in an advanced manufacturing facility in Hyderabad.
Salil Gupte, President of Boeing India, expressed satisfaction at achieving this milestone, underscoring Boeing’s resolute commitment to enhancing India’s defence capabilities. He said, “We are pleased to reach yet another significant milestone, highlighting Boeing’s unwavering commitment to supporting India’s defence capabilities.”
Gupte emphasised that the cutting-edge technology and proven performance of the AH-64 Apache will bolster the operational readiness and defence strength of the Indian Army.
In 2020, Boeing supplied 22 E-model Apaches to the IAF and signed a deal to produce six AH-64Es for the Indian Army.
The supply of Apaches to the Indian Army is expected to be completed in 2024. The AH-64E is at the pinnacle of attack helicopters globally, according to Christina Upah, Vice President of Attack Helicopter Programs and Senior Executive at Boeing’s Mesa location.
“The AH-64 provides customers with unparalleled lethality and survivability, and we are thrilled to provide those capabilities to the Indian Army,” the official said.
Boeing is dedicated to enhancing India’s defence capabilities and is making strides towards this goal, as evidenced by the production of Apache helicopters for the Indian Army.