The Z-10ME-02 helicopter was officially delivered from China to Pakistan on August 2. These helicopters were included in the Pakistan Army Aviation Corps (PAA) at the ceremony held on the Multan Army Aviation Base. On this occasion, Pakistan’s Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir presided over it and saw the live performance of these helicopters.
After getting new helicopters from China, Pakistan has retired its decades-old Bell AH-1F/S Cobra helicopters and has now chosen the way to adopt technically advanced Chinese attack helicopters. However, this decision seems to be taken under political pressure instead of technical performance as the previous Z-10 performance was not satisfactory and Pakistan officials sent these helicopters back for testing.
What are the characteristics of Z-10ME-02?
The Z-10ME-02 is a double engine attack helicopter which has been prepared by China’s Changhe Aircraft Industries Corporation (CAIC). It weighs 7.2 tonnes and can lift a payload up to 1500 kg. The length is 14.2 meters and can be equipped with a variety of missiles and rockets. It has anti-tank guided missile, laser-guided rocket, air-to-air missile, miniature cruise missile (CM-501X) and NLOS (non-line of site) capacity.
This helicopter has advanced electronic systems such as engine intake filtration system, ceramic armor plating, advanced defensive ad suit and missile alert and electronic jamming system. Its purpose is to make an accurate strike while keeping itself safe from the enemy’s air defense system.
PAK first rejected Z-10 and why now adopted?
In 2021, when China gave three Z-10 to Pakistan for testing, they were rejected due to lack of performance, but now accepting the same helicopters as an upgraded version shows that Pakistan went to this option under compulsion after the US and Turkish options failed. Ah-1Z VIPer from the US and T129B ATAK from Türkiye could not be due to US sanctions, causing Pakistan to look towards China.
India has indigenous LCH Prachanda and Apache Ah-64E
India is already ready with two major attack helicopters. LCH Prachanda (Swadeshi), which is designed for operation in altitude areas. It is light and more maneuverable. It can be deployed in areas like Kargil. The second is American Apache AH-64e Guardian. It is one of the most advanced attack helicopters in the world. It weighs 10.4 tons and has a 2500 kg payload capacity. It is equipped with Helphier missile, 30mm chain guns, longbo radars. In terms of technical and reliability, the Z-10M-02 is behind the Apache. Especially from the perspective of sensor, range, payload and Prauvan track records.
Will this change the power balance?
The deployment of Z-10ME-02 definitely increases the firepower of Pakistan’s army, but it does not stay equivalent to platforms like Apache and LCH Prachanda in India. India already has tested helicopters in high altitude areas and used in successful operations. Apart from this, India’s helicopter is also taking steps towards self -sufficiency in technology, which will give it long -term strategic benefits.
Also read: England took advantage of recruitment of Gorkha soldiers who were closed in India, new regiments of Nepali soldiers erected