US President Donald Trump’s latest remarks about India’s Apache attack helicopters have triggered fresh debate and tension between New Delhi and Washington. Trump claimed that India placed a massive order for Apache helicopters and that delivery delays were so severe that Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally sought a meeting with him.
He also linked defence cooperation with trade pressure and tariffs, at a time when both countries are negotiating a long-pending trade deal. However, a closer look at the defence agreements and delivery timelines tells a very different story.
Apache Helicopters: What Trump Said About India & the Attack Helicopters?
Speaking at a Republican retreat in Washington, Trump said India approached him over delayed helicopter deliveries.
“I had India coming to me. ‘Sir, I’ve been waiting five years … Prime Minister Modi came to see me. Sir, may I see you, please?’ and I said yes,” Trump said, adding that he has “a very good relationship with” Modi.
Trump also said, “We’re changing it. We’re changing it,” while referring to the Apache order, without explaining how or why.
On trade, Trump issued a clear warning. “We could raise tariffs on India if they don’t help on the Russian oil issue,” he said. He praised Modi again, saying, “PM Modi’s a very good man. He’s a good guy. He knew I was not happy. It was important to make me happy.”
Trump added, “We’re getting rich because of tariffs, by the way. Hope everyone understands,” and claimed massive investments were flowing into the US due to tariff policies.
Apache Attack Helicopter: What the Facts Show on Deliveries in India?
India signed two separate deals for Apache helicopters, and both followed clear timelines.
The first agreement was signed in September 2015 to purchase 22 Apache helicopters for the Indian Air Force. These helicopters were delivered as scheduled, with the final batch arriving by 2020. The Indian Air Force inducted them without any reported diplomatic intervention.
The second deal was signed in February 2020, during Trump’s visit to India, for six Apache helicopters for the Indian Army Aviation Corps. This order did face delays, largely due to production and global supply issues. However, deliveries were completed, and by December 2025, all 28 Apache helicopters had been handed over to India.
There is no public record of India seeking emergency political intervention over delays, nor any evidence that Modi requested a special meeting on this issue.
Apache Helicopter: Why These Matter in India’s Defence
The AH-64E Apache Guardian is among the most advanced attack helicopters in the world. India inducted them to boost its combat capabilities, particularly in high-threat environments and complex battlefields.
The Apache plays a crucial role in Multi-Domain Operations, allowing forces to integrate land, air, and digital warfare seamlessly. It supports offensive strikes, reconnaissance missions, and battlefield coordination.
Apache Attack Helicopter Cost?
India’s first Apache deal was valued at around $2.2 billion for 22 helicopters. The second deal for six helicopters cost between $600 million and $800 million. The price includes weapons, training, spare parts, and long-term maintenance support, making the Apache a high-value but high-impact asset.
How Many Apache Helicopters does India have?
India currently operates 28 Apache attack helicopters.
- 22 Apaches serve with the Indian Air Force
- 6 Apaches operate under the Indian Army Aviation Corps
These helicopters are deployed to enhance strike capabilities along sensitive borders and high-altitude regions.
Apache Attack Helicopters Range
The Apache has a combat range of over 480 kilometres and an extended ferry range exceeding 1,900 kilometres with auxiliary fuel tanks. This allows it to conduct deep-penetration missions and remain operational for extended periods.
Apache Helicopters: How Deadly Are They in the Sky?
The Apache is equipped with advanced targeting systems, night-vision navigation, and precision-guided weapons that work in all weather conditions. It carries Hellfire missiles, rockets, and a 30mm chain gun capable of destroying armour and fortified positions.
It can also control unmanned aerial vehicles, giving pilots real-time battlefield awareness. Powerful engines and reinforced systems allow it to survive heavy fire and continue missions under extreme conditions.
Boeing has described it as “a fully integrated, optimized for battle attack helicopter that is truly in a class by itself.”
Trump’s Other Claims on India Under Scrutiny
This is not the first time Trump’s remarks on India have raised eyebrows. He recently claimed India had sharply reduced Russian oil imports. India has not confirmed this.
Trump also took credit for a ceasefire between India and Pakistan following Operation Sindoor, a claim India firmly rejected. New Delhi has consistently said the ceasefire occurred after direct military communication between both sides, without third-party mediation.
Indian officials also point out that Prime Minister Modi does not use the honourific “Sir” while addressing foreign leaders, casting doubt on Trump’s anecdote.
Defence, Trade & Diplomacy
Trump’s remarks come at a sensitive time. The US is weighing sanctions on countries buying Russian oil, while India seeks stability in defence ties and trade relations. While Trump praised Modi personally, his comments underline a tougher transactional approach.
For now, the facts show that India received all its Apache helicopters, and the controversy appears driven more by political messaging than defence reality.
