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Ukraine’s Giant An-124 Delivers the Final Apache Gunships India Was Waiting For
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![Photo of Vlad Litnarovych]( "Photo of Vlad Litnarovych")
Ukraine’s heavy airlift capabilities were once again on display as an Antonov An-124 cargo aircraft delivered the final batch of India’s AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, completing a long-delayed contract with the United States, according to The Times of India on December 16.
The last three Boeing AH-64E Apache helicopters arrived on December 16, 2025, at Hindon Air Force Base near New Delhi aboard a Ukrainian-operated An-124 “Ruslan,” one of the world’s largest transport aircraft. The delivery completed India’s order of six Apache gunships intended for the Indian Army.
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Following arrival, the helicopters will undergo final assembly, including installation of main rotor blades, technical checks, and inspection procedures, before formally entering service.
Once inducted, all six AH-64E Apaches will be based at Jodhpur as part of the Indian Army Aviation Corps’ 451st Squadron. The aircraft are expected to significantly enhance India’s strike, reconnaissance, and close-support capabilities along its western sector.
#India's Army Aviation Corps has received the final three AH-64E #Apache attack #helicopters, completing its contracted fleet. These advanced aircraft, set to be based in Jodhpur, significantly boost the #Army's attack and reconnaissance capabilities.
— The Times Of India (@timesofindia) December 17, 2025
More details… pic.twitter.com/aYQzYx84NY
The first three Apaches under the same contract were delivered in July 2025, after repeated schedule delays. The original agreement for six helicopters was signed in 2020 as part of a government-to-government deal between India and the United States.
In parallel with the Army’s fleet, the Indian Air Force already operates 22 AH-64E Apache helicopters acquired under an earlier contract. Indian defense officials have described the two Apache fleets as complementary, designed to operate jointly during large-scale maneuvers and combat operations.
The use of the Antonov An-124 underscores Ukraine’s continued role in global strategic airlift, even as the country remains engaged in defending itself against Russia’s war of aggression.
Earlier, a Ukrainian Antonov An-124 “Ruslan” transport aircraft successfully delivered a Super Puma multipurpose helicopter to Réunion Island.
-111f0e5095e02c02446ffed57bfb0ab1.jpeg "Photo of Roman Kohanets")
