India Signs $3Billion Contract With Boeing, US Government For Apache, Chinook Helicopters

India has signed two contracts with the US officials on Monday to buy 22 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, and 15 CH-47F Chinook multi-mission heavy lift helicopters for the country’s air force.

Two of the contracts, which were signed between the US Boeing and Indian defence ministry, were for the direct commercial sale (DCS) part of the contracts. This includes the entire Chinook helicopter, and the flying portion of the Apache (less engines), as well as logistic support, spares and services.

The purchase of the Apache weaponry and radar was signed separately as a foreign military sale (FMS) by the Indian defence ministry. The FMS portion of the sale includes munitions, training, aircraft certification, and components like engines, electro-optical sensors and the radar.

“Contracts for purchase of 15 Chinook and 22 Apache Helicopters signed”, tweeted defence ministry spokesperson, Sitanshu Kar, late on Monday evening. The value of the deal for both helicopters, including DCS and FMS portions of the sale, is approximately $3 billion.

According to the contract signed, Boeing will start delivering the Chinook and Apache helicopters 36 months from Monday. The entire delivery is to be completed in 48 months from the signing of the contract.

Both helicopters will be delivered in fly-away condition that is fully-built and ready for operations. Since Boeing is committed to a 30 per cent offset liability, there may be some portions that are built in India.

Already, Indian companies are involved in the building of the Chinook. The Dynamatics Technologies builds the aft pylon and cargo ramps for the Chinook’s global supply chain.

The Apache AH-64E, attack helicopters, is armed with anti-tank missiles, rockets and a chain gun that fires 625 rounds per minute that can rip apart and armoured vehicles.

The Chinook heavy lift helicopters is capable of under slinging and lifting a light 155 millimetre howitzer to support troops in high altitudes of up to 15,000 feet.