New Delhi: The Indian Army has received the remaining three Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, completing the delivery of the six helicopters ordered for the force. The latest induction marks another major milestone in the growing India–US defence partnership, officials said on Wednesday.

The helicopters were flown into India aboard an Antonov An-124 aircraft and will soon be inducted into the Army’s 451 Army Aviation Squadron, based in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. According to the Army, the aircraft will be deployed after assembly, joint inspections, and completion of necessary formalities in the coming days.

Confirming the development, the US Embassy in India highlighted the strategic importance of the delivery. In a statement posted on social media, the embassy said the arrival of the Apache helicopters fulfills commitments made under the joint statement issued by the US President and the Indian Prime Minister, reflecting the strength of the US–India Major Defense Partnership.

“This milestone reflects the reliable and growing #USIndiaDefense partnership and fulfills commitments made by @SecWar and @DefenceMinIndia,” the embassy said, adding that the Apache helicopters, with their advanced combat capabilities, strengthen the shared vision for regional security and deepen cooperation in training, co-production, and technology exchange.

India had earlier received the first batch of three Apache helicopters in July.

The Indian Army’s Apache helicopters made their operational debut during Exercise Maru Jwala earlier this year, which was conducted as part of the larger tri-services exercise, Exercise Trishul. The helicopters showcased their advanced strike, surveillance, and battlefield support capabilities during the drills.

The induction of the AH-64E Apache helicopters significantly enhances the Indian Army’s attack and reconnaissance capabilities, particularly in desert and high-threat operational environments.