The Indian Army showcased cutting-edge combat prowess at the Pokhran Field Firing Range during Exercise Brahmastra, headlined by the first-ever firepower display of its AH-64E Apache attack helicopters.The Army received the first of its six Apache helicopters in July 2025. During the exercise, the helicopters demonstrated their ability to operate in close coordination with ground troops in a high-threat environment. The Army has now deployed its Apache attack helicopters in Jodhpur, and they are part of the 451 Army Aviation Squadron. The Apache is considered the most advanced attack helicopter in the world. The formidable attack helicopter demonstrated rapid target acquisition and precision strike capability. Advanced sensors, fire control systems, and real-time data links enabled faster decision-making and immediate action, swiftly converting battlefield intelligence into effective strikes.The Apache first entered US Army service exactly 40 years ago in April 1986. It has seen combat worldwide in diverse environments, earning its baptism by fire in Panama's tropical rainforests in 1989.The helicopter has since served in Iraq, Kosovo, and beyond. The Indian Air Force, which also operates the Apache, deployed it in the super-high altitudes of eastern Ladakh during the intense standoff with China. Powered by two 1,690-shaft-horsepower engines, the Apache reaches 20,000 feet and achieves a top speed of 365 km/h.The Apache carries battle-proven Hellfire anti-tank guided missiles with a maximum range of 11 km, allowing it to engage defended targets—such as those protected by short-range air defense missiles and guns—while evading threats. It can also deploy the Non-Line-of-Sight (NLOS) variant of the Spike ATGM, which India operates. Beyond anti-tank weapons, it supports an air-to-air Stinger missile variant.The Apache attack helicopter can also be armed with up to 4 pods, each carrying 19 70mm rockets. These rockets can be converted to guided weapons with the use of the Advanced Precision Kill Weapons System (APKWS) kit. The Apache is also armed with a 30mm automatic cannon that the co-pilot can aim just by looking at a target."See first, shoot first" is a long-established combat mantra, but it rings truer today than ever in the history of warfare. The Apache boasts cutting-edge sensors, including the AN/APG-78 Longbow fire control radar. It also features an advanced electro-optical Target Acquisition and Designation System (TADS) mounted on the nose, capable of detecting targets in any lighting conditions.