The Indian Air Force (IAF) inducted eight US-made Apache AH-64E attack helicopters in Pathankot on Tuesday, which will give a major boost to its combat capabilities. Officials said the aircraft were formally inducted at the induction ceremony at Pathankot Air Force station with Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa as the chief guest. The AH-64E Apache is one of the world's most advanced multi-role combat helicopters, and is flown by the US Army.  "Eight of the Apache attack helicopters inducted into the IAF, that will enhance the force's combat capabilities," a senior IAF official said.

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Watch Air chief Marshal B S Dhanoa's address on Apache AH-64E induction below:

Boost For Indian Air Force: First Batch Of 4 Apache Attack Helicopters Arrives From US

IAF's deal on Apache AH-64E with US

The ceremonial key was handed over by the Boeing company. The IAF had signed a multi-billion dollar contract with the US government and Boeing Ltd in September 2015 for 22 Apache helicopters. The IAF had signed a multi-billion dollar contract with the US government and Boeing Ltd in September 2015 for 22 Apache helicopters. The first four of the 22 helicopters was handed over to the air force by Boeing on July 27.

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Apache delivery after four years since deal 

The delivery of the first batch of Apache helicopters to the IAF at the Hindan air base had come nearly four years after a multi-billion dollar deal for the choppers was sealed. Additionally, the Defence Ministry in 2017 approved the procurement of six Apache helicopters along with weapons systems from Boeing at a cost of Rs 4,168 crore for the Army.This will be its first fleet of attack choppers. By 2020, the IAF will operate a fleet of 22 Apaches. These first deliveries were ahead of schedule.

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