IAF to induct 8 US-made Apache helicopters

The Indian Air Force will induct eight US-made Apache AH-64E attack helicopters here on Tuesday, which will give a major boost to its combat capabilities. Officials said the induction ceremony is underway and the aircraft will be formally inducted at the Pathankot Air Force station with Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa as the chief guest.

The AH-64E Apache is one of the world's most advanced multi-role combat helicopters and is flown by the US Army. "Eight of the Apache attack helicopters will shortly be inducted into the IAF, that will enhance the force's combat capabilities," a senior IAF official said. The IAF had signed a multi-billion dollar contract with the US government and Boeing Ltd in September 2015 for 22 Apache helicopters.