The deal for six AH-64E Apache attack helicoptersfor the Indian Army, estimated to cost around $930 million, is likely to be signed early next year. These are in addition to 22 Apaches being inducted by the Indian Air force (IAF). For this, India is exercising the optional clause in the original deal for 22 Apaches, that has a provision for 11 helicopters. The Army had made a pitch for all of them, but the government had limited it to six. The IAF has recently inducted the first batch of eight Apaches based in Pathankot. All the 22 Apaches are expected to be delivered by 2020 and will replace the ageing Russian Mi-35 attack helicopters in service.
