About Apache helicopters

• Apache is the most advanced multi-role heavy attack helicopter in the world.
• It is being made in the US by Boeing.
• Alongside the capability to shoot fire and forget anti-tank guided missiles, rockets and other ammunitions, it also has modern Electronic Warfare (EW) capabilities to provide versatility to helicopters in a network-centric aerial warfare.
• The helicopter is capable of delivering a variety of weapons which include air-to-ground Hellfire missiles, 70 mm Hydra rockets and air-to-air Stinger missiles.
• Apache also carries one 30 mm chain gun, and fire control radar, which has a 360° coverage.
• These helicopters are day/night, all weather capable and have high agility and survivability against battle damage.
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Apache helicopters India

• India has contracted 22 Apache helicopters for Indian Air Force (IAF) from Boeing through the Foreign Military Sales programme of the U.S. government in 2015.
• The government has also cleared the acquisition of six additional Apaches for the Indian Army which has been formally approved by the U.S.
• Apache attack helicopters are being purchased to replace the Mi-35 fleet.
• Boeing’s joint venture in Hyderabad, Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited, has been producing aero-structures for the AH-64 Apache helicopter for both the U.S. Army and international customers.

Why in News?

Boeing recently handed over the last of the five AH-64E Apache attack helicopters to the Indian Air Force (IAF), completing the contract for 22 Apaches.