The Indian Army has significantly bolstered its operational capabilities by inaugurating its first Apache attack helicopter squadron in the desert region of Jodhpur, situated proximate to the Pakistan border. This strategic deployment marks a substantial enhancement in India's aerial combat preparedness in the region.

The squadron was established in Jodhpur, with the presence of Director General of Indian Army Aviation, Lieutenant General Ajay Suri, and officials from the original manufacturer, Boeing, alongside other senior Indian Army officials, according to sources from the Indian Army speaking to ANI.

According to sources, the Apache helicopters of the Indian Army will be painted in desert camouflage colours. The initial batch of these helicopters is expected to arrive and integrate into the fleet by May of this year.

Officials have indicated a slight delay due to the ongoing global security situation, but assert that plans are now back on schedule. Earlier, the Indian Army finalised a contract to procure six Apache helicopters from the US.

These advanced attack helicopters, often dubbed as 'tanks in the air', are slated to land at the Indian Air Force's Hindon Air Force Station before being deployed in Jodhpur in May, in close proximity to the India-Pakistan border, as per the officials' statements.

The Army Aviation Corps, presently operating utility helicopters like the Dhruv and Chetak, previously welcomed the domestically produced Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) Prachand at Missamari, Assam, last year. It is worth noting that the Indian Air Force currently maintains a fleet of 22 Apache helicopters, which have been deployed on both the eastern and western fronts.

Image source: India Today