India is set to receive a significant boost to its military capabilities with the arrival of three Apache AH-64E attack helicopters from the United States next week. The delivery is scheduled for July 21, marking the first consignment of these advanced helicopters. These "tanks in the air" will be deployed to the Pakistan border, enhancing the Indian Army's offensive capabilities and reconnaissance operations in the region. The helicopters will arrive at the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Hindon Air Force Station.

The acquisition of these Apache helicopters is part of a larger effort to modernize the Indian Army Aviation Corps (AAC). The Indian Air Force already operates Apache helicopters, a deal for which was signed in 2015, and all 22 AH-64E Apache helicopters have been delivered by 2020 and are operational in the forces. In 2020, India signed a deal worth $600 million to acquire six more Apaches for the Army. The first batch was originally scheduled for delivery between May and June 2024 but was delayed. The remaining three Apache helicopters are expected to arrive before the end of 2025.

Apache helicopters are equipped with state-of-the-art targeting, night vision, and communication systems, making them capable of operating in diverse roles and all weather conditions. These systems provide accurate target data, enhancing the helicopter's effectiveness in both offensive and reconnaissance missions. In March 2024, the Army Aviation Corps also signed a contract for 25 new Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH). In addition, the Ministry signed two contracts for a combined value of Rs 8073.17 crore for the acquisition of 34 Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Dhruv Mk III for the Indian Army (25 ALHs) and Indian Coast Guard (09 ALHs), marking a significant move towards indigenisation in defence manufacturing.

The Indian Army's Army Aviation Corps raised its first squadron of Apache attack helicopters in Jodhpur on March 15. An internal study in 2022 projected a need for 39 Apache helicopters to meet long-term requirements. The delivery of these helicopters had faced delays, with the initial batch expected by June 2024, which was later pushed to December 2024 due to supply chain issues.