The Indian Army has formed its first squadron of Apache attack helicopters in the desert region.

New Delhi:

In a major boost to its capabilities, the Indian Army on Friday inaugurated its first squadron of Apache attack helicopters in the Jodhpur desert region close to Pakistan’s front line.

Indian Army officials told ANI that the squadron was established in Jodhpur today in the presence of Army Aviation Director General Lieutenant General Ajay Suri, officials from original manufacturer Boeing and other senior officials.

They said the Indian Army Apache helicopters will be camouflaged in desert colors and the first batch will arrive in May this year and join the fleet.

Officials said the operation was slightly delayed due to the current global security situation but is now on track.

Previously, the Indian Army had signed a contract to purchase 6 Apache helicopters from the United States.

Officials added that the advanced attack helicopters, also known as “air tanks”, will land at the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Hindon air base before being deployed in Jodhpur near the India-Pakistan border in May.

The Army Aviation, which currently operates utility helicopters like Dhruv and Chetak, inducted the indigenously developed Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand in Misamalli, Assam, early last year.

It is worth noting that the Indian Air Force already has a fleet of 22 Apache helicopters deployed on the eastern and western fronts.

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