New Delhi: The Air Force fleet is likely to soon include an Apache helicopter. The Defence Ministry has taken a decision in this regard. The Defence Ministry had finalized the order of production, training and support of 22 AH64 Apache helicopters in 2015. The ministry had finalized an order of production, training and support of 22 AH-64 Apache attack helicopters in 2015. Two years later, the central government approved the acquisition of an additional six Apaches for the Indian Army.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will take these steps at Pathankoth on September 3 to enhance the strength of India's defence department. The first batch of helicopters landed on an Antonov aircraft at the Hindon airbase about three weeks ago. India had taken the Apache helicopter Asch-64 from the US. After the first four helicopters, another batch came to the air base and eight Apaches are expected to be inducted into the Indian Air Force for the first time.

By 2020, Boeing will hand over the responsibility of operating the entire fleet of 22 Apaches to the Indian Air Force. After doing so, the responsibility of the Air Force Department will increase. India was to sign a deal with the US company in 2018. According to the deal, the US company will send 15 heavy helicopters to India for $3 billion. The deal was started during the UPA period but for some reason the deal could not be signed. Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa had highlighted the utility of Apache helicopter in hilly areas.

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