The Pakistan Army has inducted the Chinese-made Z-10ME attack helicopter into its aviation fleet. The announcement came during Field Marshal Asim Munir’s visit to the Multan Garrison.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Z-10ME can operate in all weather and during nighttime. It is designed to carry out accurate strikes.
Helicopter introduced after trials
Pakistan Army Aviation tested the helicopter before induction. After the trials, China introduced the Z-10ME as an export version. It is based on the older Z-10 model but includes several upgrades.
The Z-10ME has a millimeter wave radar, updated weapons, and improved electronics. Its cannon system has been repositioned to improve the helicopter’s center of gravity.
Weapon capacity and external mounts
The helicopter has six external mounting points. It can carry up to 3 tons of weapons. It can use both air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons.
CM-501XA cruise missile
The Z-10ME can launch the CM-501XA cruise missile. This missile is used for both reconnaissance and strike missions. It has a unique radar system shaped like an X. It provides the ability to strike sensitive targets quickly.
The missile can also send battlefield information back through data links. This feature allows the helicopter to perform missions that require fast action.
SW-6 reconnaissance UAV
The helicopter can also carry and launch the SW-6 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The SW-6 is used for reconnaissance. It is 1.6 meters long with a wingspan of 2.4 meters.
The UAV can carry up to 5 kg of payload while holding the ability to fly at speeds between 80 to 100 Kmph. In addition to this, the all-modern Z-10ME can fly continuously with the payload for up to one hour.
Anti-submarine warfare capability
The Z-10ME can also carry the ET60 lightweight anti-submarine torpedo.
Other missile systems
The Z-10ME supports the TY-90 air-to-air missile and the CM-502AG air-to-ground missile. It is also fitted with VX Fire and Argit missiles. These are Chinese versions of the U.S. Hellfire missile.
The helicopter can carry both guided and unguided weapons.
More powerful engine
It merits a mention that the most significant feature of the Z-10ME is the WZ-9 engine. It produces between 1200 to 1300 kW of power, making it at least 30 per cent more powerful than the Z-10’s earlier version.
According to reports, Pakistan security officials’ decision to finalise the modern Z-10 ME came after China upgraded its engine.
The stronger engine improves flight in high-temperature and high-altitude areas. It also increases its weapons-carrying ability.
Upgraded intake and exhaust systems
The helicopter has new sand filters on the air intake. This helps in desert and dusty conditions. The exhaust system has also been changed to reduce the infrared signature.
This makes it harder for infrared-guided missiles to detect the helicopter.
