Bengaluru: As India has emphatically shown China that is no pushover, the final batch of Apache helicopters, 5 in number, was delivered to the IAF last month by US manufacturer Boeing. The IAF, now has 22 such machines in its kitty.
The five were handed over to the IAF at Air Force Station, Hindon last month.
It is interesting to know that the IAF which conducted night sorites at Eastern Ladakh, has also employed these helicopters into service.
The helicopters called 'flying tanks' are a potent acquisition and multi-role in nature. These helicopters, armed with anti-tank missiles, can operate in high mountain terrains, India Today notes.
The Indian Air Force had decided to have 22 helicopters spilt in two squadrons based in Pathankot, Punjab to combat threats from Pakistan and the other in Jorhat, Assam with an eye on China, the website adds.
Here are some features of the metal bird:
1. The Apache has to its credit the varied capabilities that make it a godsend for any mission. From greater thrust, lift and joint digital operability to cognitive decision aiding and improved survivability, you name it and the aircraft has it!
2. Without having the need to reconfigure it, the helicopter is customised to meet the commander’s needs that also include security, reconnaissance, lethal attack and peacekeeping operations in both land and littoral zones.
3. The Hellfire missile is the primary weapon of the Apache helicopter. The missile is like a mini aircraft, it has its own guidance computer, steering control and propulsion system.
4. The missile carries a payload that is highly explosive and powerful enough to take down the heaviest tank.
5. The Apache has two Hydra rocket launchers, each launcher carries 19 aerial rockets, secured in launching tubes. The rockets can be fired one at a time or even in groups. The rockets might be armed with high-power explosives or just smoke-producing materials.
