India commissions first 8 Boeing AH-64E(I) Apache Guardian attack helicopters

One of the AH-64E(I) Apache Guardian attack helicopters of the IAF. Photo c/o Zeenews India.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) commissioned the first 8 units of Boeing AH-64E(I) Apache Guardian attack helicopters during ceremonies held at Pathankot Air Force Station near the border with Pakistan on 3 September 2019.

The helicopters will be operated by the IAF’s 125 “Gladiators” Helicopter Squadron.

This first batch is part of a larger order for 22 units in a contract worth US$2.02 billion and signed in 2015. The rest of the helicopters will be delivered by 2020.

The IAF plans to operate 2 squadrons of 10 helicopters each, with 1 squadron each assigned near the borders with Pakistan and China. 2 units will be held as reserves in case of accidents or combat losses.

Compared to the standard AH-64E Apache Guardian, the AH-64E(I), with “I” standing for India, has Indian-specific enhancements to suit operations according to IAF needs. Initial outputs from the IAF says the Apache Guardians are superior to their existing fleet of Russian-made Mi-35 Hind combat helicopters in terms of electronic warfare, surveillance and detection, and weapon systems.

India has ordered another 8 units of Apache Guardians in 2018, this time for the Indian Army.


[1] Jane’s Defence Weekly
[2] News18 India