SOURCE: IDRW.ORG
Recent media reports have suggested that the Indian Army has chosen not to deploy its Boeing AH-64 Apache attack helicopters in high-altitude areas due to their limited performance in such regions. However, sources within the Indian Army have clarified to idrw.org that these reports are a misrepresentation of the facts. The Indian Army had never intended to use its Apache helicopters in high-altitude regions, as they were specifically procured to support Strike Corps operations in more suitable terrains.
The Apache AH-64 attack helicopters, globally recognized for their firepower and versatility, were purchased by the Indian Army with a clear operational focus. Contrary to media reports suggesting performance issues in high-altitude environments, Army officials have confirmed that the helicopters were never intended for such roles.
“From the very beginning, we procured AH-64 Apaches to support our Strike Corps for offensive cross-border operations, not for high-altitude deployments,” an Army official told idrw.org. The Army’s Strike Corps is tasked with conducting rapid and decisive offensive operations, primarily in desert and semi-arid regions where the Apache’s capabilities are well-suited.
One clear indication of the Apache’s intended operational environment is the decision to outfit these helicopters in desert camouflage. “We ordered them in Desert Camo for a reason,” said Army officials, reaffirming that these helicopters are meant to be used in the deserts and plains where the Strike Corps primarily operates. This decision was made with a strategic focus on enhancing the Army’s capabilities in regions such as the western border, where fast-moving offensive actions would benefit from the Apache’s agility, firepower, and advanced targeting systems.
For high-altitude operations, the Indian Army has instead chosen to focus on the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand, developed indigenously by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). The LCH has been specifically designed to perform in the challenging and demanding conditions of high-altitude environments, such as those found in the Himalayas and the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China.
The LCH is optimized for high-altitude warfare with superior maneuverability and performance in thin air conditions, something that makes it more suitable for operations in regions like Ladakh and Siachen. The Indian Air Force (IAF), on the other hand, has been operating its Apache helicopters in these high-altitude areas due to different mission requirements and operational doctrines.
The Army’s decision to procure the AH-64 Apaches was primarily driven by the need to bolster offensive capabilities in trans-border strike missions. Apaches, with their advanced avionics, long-range Hellfire missiles, and 30mm chain gun, provide crucial support to the mechanized and armored units of the Strike Corps. These helicopters can destroy enemy tanks, fortifications, and vehicles with pinpoint accuracy, thus enhancing the overall offensive power of the Indian Army in the plains and deserts.
Deploying these helicopters in their intended operational environment maximizes their combat effectiveness. The Apache’s combination of firepower, speed, and survivability makes it ideal for conducting deep penetration strikes and providing close air support to ground forces in dynamic combat situations.
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