03 July, 2025:
India is scheduled to receive six AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from the United States in mid-July. Known as the Apache Guardian, the AH-64E is the most advanced version of the iconic Apache helicopter, widely used by the US Army and various international forces. This variant features several enhancements over its predecessors, including more powerful engines and an upgraded transmission system.
The Indian Army's long-awaited induction of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters is expected to begin soon, with sources suggesting that the first batch could be delivered within this month. The Army Aviation Corps had raised its first Apache squadron in Jodhpur in March 2024.
As per the 2020 agreement, the delivery plan involved two batches of three helicopters each, with the first set originally scheduled for arrival between May and June 2024. However, the timeline was initially pushed to December 2024 due to supply chain disruptions and later delayed further due to technical issues on the US side.
Defence Ministry sources now indicate that the first batch of three Apaches is likely to arrive in the coming weeks, while the remaining three are expected by the end of the year.
The total cost of the Apache deal between India and the United States is estimated to range between $600 million and $930 million (approximately ₹4,100 crore to ₹6,700 crore), according to reports. This includes munitions, pilot and crew training, aircraft certification, engines, electro-optical sensors, radar systems, logistics support, spare parts, and maintenance services.
Following the India-US defence talks held on Tuesday, July 1, it was decided that the first batch of three Apache helicopters would be delivered by July 15, with the remaining three expected to arrive by November this year.
