Turkey has reportedly blocked the delivery of the Indian Army’s final batch of six AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, disrupting India’s strategic defense plans. The Antonov An-124 cargo plane carrying the helicopters was forced to return to the US after Turkey denied overflight clearance, citing deteriorating bilateral relations linked to Ankara’s vocal support for Pakistan in the recent India-Pakistan conflict, including the “Operation Sindoor” strikes. The first batch of Apaches arrived in July 2025 after delays, but this latest obstruction threatens to postpone full induction beyond 2025. The move reflects Turkey’s increasing use of geopolitical leverage against India amid strained ties regarding Kashmir and regional alignments. India is now compelled to explore alternative logistics routes and diversify defense procurement pathways to mitigate future disruptions, emphasizing the complex interplay between international diplomacy and military readiness in South Asia’s volatile security environment. Defense Ministry and Boeing remain engaged to resolve the issue swiftly.