APACHE
ATTACK HELICOPTERS - DEFENCE & SECURITY
News:
Army raises first Apache
attack helicopter squadron in Jodhpur near Pak border
What's in the news?
●
The Army Aviation Corps raised the first
squadron of its Apache attack helicopters in Jodhpur to support ground operations near the Pakistan border.
Key
takeaways:
●
Developed by the US aviation giant Boeing,
Apache choppers are known as the 'tanks
in the air'.
●
They are advanced multi-mission helicopters with the latest technology and
have come to be known as the best attack helicopters in the world.
AH-64E
Apache:
●
It is the world’s most advanced multi-role combat helicopter.
●
It is also known as Apache Guardian.
●
The AH-64E attack helicopter is the latest
version of the AH-64, used by the US Army.
Country
of Origin - United States
Manufacturer
- Boeing
Purchasers:
●
India, Egypt, Greece, Indonesia, Israel,
Japan, South Korea, Kuwait, Netherlands, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, UAE,
UK.
Features:
●
It is designed and equipped with an open
systems architecture to incorporate the latest
communications, navigation, sensor, and weapon systems.
●
Has greater thrust and lift, joint digital
operability, improved survivability and cognitive decision aiding.
●
The AH-64E includes a new integrated
infrared laser that allows for easier target designation and enhanced infrared
imagery that blends infrared and night vision capabilities.
Apache
for Indian Defence Forces:
●
The Indian Air Force has a fleet of 22
AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, and in 2020, Boeing signed an agreement with
the Government of India for the acquisition of six more Apache helicopters for
the Indian Army.
Go
back to basics:
Tata
Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL):
●
It is a joint venture between Tata
Advanced Systems Limited and aircraft manufacturer Boeing.
●
Boeing’s first equity joint venture in
India.
●
TBAL manufacturing facility is located in
Hyderabad.
●
TBAL is the sole global producer of
fuselages for AH-64 Apache helicopters.