India has finalised its long-planned contract to acquire new attack and transport helicopters from the USA, with Boeing to deliver a combined 37 aircraft under the programme.
Announcing the development on 29 September, the US manufacturer confirmed India's expected order of 22 AH-64E Apaches and 15 CH-47F Chinooks, and said its award covers "production, training and support".
"This acquisition enhances the Indian air force's capabilities, and offers us an opportunity to further accelerate 'Make in India'," says Boeing India president Pratyush Kumar. "Large sections of the Chinook fuselage are already manufactured in India, and discussions are ongoing with our Indian partners to make Apache parts."
Boeing has previously supplied the Indian air force with 10 Boeing C-17 strategic transports, and has so far supplied the nation's navy with seven Boeing 737-based P-8I maritime surveillance aircraft.
Source: FlightGlobal.com
