India will receive the first batch of Apache attack helicopters and one C-17 transport aircraft in July-August this year, Boeing officials said on Thursday. The company also pitched an upgraded version of its F-18 fighter for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Navy’s fighter tenders.
“We are on course to delivering the first of the 22 AH-64 Apache attack helicopters in July this year,” David Koopersmith, vice-president and general manager of vertical lift, Boeing Defence Space and Security, said at a press conference at Aero India.
The IAF will also get one more C-17 strategic transport aircraft in August, another Boeing official said.
In 2011, India had purchased 10 C-17s from the U.S. in a deal worth $4.1 billion which had a follow on clause for six more aircraft.
F-18 Super Hornet
The IAF has issued a Request For Information (RFI) to procure 114 fighter jets to which even global aircraft manufacturers have responded. The proposals are being evaluated after which a Request For Proposal (RFP) would be issued.
Upping the pitch in the IAF’s fighter race, Boeing has offered an upgraded Block-III of the F-18 Super Hornet for the IAF and the Navy’s aircraft carriers.
“It has the lowest operational costs of any tactical fighter in the U.S. inventory,” said Thom Brecken Ridge, vice-president - strike surveillance and mobility, speaking of the fighters capabilities.
He said it would also add support in design and development of India’s own Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).
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