China Begins Deliveries of Z-10ME Helicopters to Pakistan

SSBCrackExams
July 10, 2023
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According to reports, China has begun delivering Z-10ME attack helicopters to Pakistan, a significant step forward in the two countries military ties. Pakistan could not obtain Turkish-made T129 ATAK attack helicopters due to a lack of approval from Washington, as American engines power the T129 ATAK helicopters.

Initially, Pakistan tested the Z-10ME helicopters and deemed them inferior to the T129 ATAK helicopters. As a result, Pakistan first opted for the T129 ATAK over the Chinese offering. However, due to the American unwillingness to deliver engines for the T129 ATAK and the ageing fleet of Bell AH-1 Cobra attack helicopters, Pakistan was forced to reevaluate its choice and finally put an order for the Chinese attack helicopters.

Z-10ME Helicopter

The Z-10ME is the most recent version of China’s Z-10 chopper. Its origins can be traced back to the 1990s when China attempted to construct its own attack helicopter. While the specifics of its development are unknown, some sources claim collaboration with the Russian Kamov helicopter design bureau, while others mention collaboration with Eurocopter and Agusta.

China Begins Deliveries of Z 10ME Helicopters to Pakistan 2

China Begins Deliveries of Z 10ME Helicopters to Pakistan 3

The Z-10ME improves on its predecessors in various ways. Notably, it has a lower infrared signature due to the engine exhaust nozzle being raised upwards. The helicopter has a more powerful WZ-9G engine, which improves performance. Improved inlet filtering, higher ammunition capacity, graphene armour panels, infrared jamming capabilities, and a new top-mounted fire control radar for IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) interrogation are among the other enhancements.

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