The Indian Air Force (IAF) will begin evaluation tests of the Boeing AH-64D Apache attack helicopter this summer before purchasing 22 helicopters as part of its modernisation plan.
Boeing responded to a request for proposal (RFP) issued by the IAF last year to buy 22 attack helicopters to replace the air force’s Russian-made attack helicopters, according to The Hindu.
Boeing’s Asia Pacific international business development regional director Dean Millsap said the IAF team would visit the US to finalise the dates for the trials in different weather conditions.
Under the $2bn deal, Boeing will supply its Apache Block 3 helicopter, currently used by the US Air Force, to the IAF.
Block 3 Apache helicopters are equipped with improved target detection and increased situational awareness, and have connectivity with unmanned aerial vehicles.
Apache helicopters can perform missions with fire-and-forget missiles, auxiliary fuel tanks and air-to-air missiles.
