Why in News:

• The first AH-64E Apache attack helicopter built for India was formally handed over to the Indian Air Force (IAF) at the Boeing production facility in Mesa, Arizona in the U.S.

Details:

• The helicopter has been customised to suit IAF’s future requirements and would have significant capability in mountainous terrain. The helicopter has the capability to carry out precision attacks at standoff ranges and operate in hostile airspace with threats from ground. The ability of the helicopters, to transmit and receive the battlefield picture, to and from the weapon systems makes it a lethal acquisition.

AH-64E / Features:

• AH-64E Apache is one of the leading multi-role attack helicopters globally and is flown by the US Army.
• The Apaches are armed with stinger air-to-air missiles, Hellfire Longbow air-to-ground missiles, guns and rockets. Its features include joint digital operability, improved survivability and cognitive decision-aiding.

Significance:

• The addition of AH-64 E (I) helicopter is a significant step towards modernisation of Indian
  Air Force’s helicopter fleet.
• The helicopter has been customised to suit the IAF’s future requirements and would have
  significant capability in mountainous terrain.
• It has the capability to carry out precision attacks at standoff ranges and operate in hostile airspace with threats from ground.
• Its ability to transmit and receive the battlefield picture, to and from the weapon systems through data networking makes it a lethal acquisition.