The delivery of Z-10ME-02 helicopters to pakistan from china was officially made on 2 August. These helicopters were inducted into the pakistan army Aviation Corps (PAA) at a ceremony held at the Multan army Aviation Base. On this occasion, Pakistan's Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir himself presided over it and witnessed the live demonstration 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 path of adopting technologically advanced Chinese attack helicopters. However, this decision seems to have been taken under political pressure rather than technical performance as earlier the performance of the Z-10 was not satisfactory and the Pakistani authorities had sent back these helicopters that had come for testing.
What are the features of Z-10ME-02?
The Z-10ME-02 is a double engine attack helicopter developed by China's Changhe Aircraft industries Corporation (CAIC). It weighs 7.2 tonnes and can carry up to 1500 kg of payload. The length is 14.2 meters and it can be equipped with various types of missiles and rockets. It has anti-tank guided missiles, laser-guided rockets, air-to-air missiles, miniature cruise missiles (CM-501X) and NLoS (Non Line of Sight) capability. This helicopter has advanced electronic systems such as engine intake filtration system, ceramic armor plating, advanced defensive aid suit and missile alert and electronic jamming system. Its purpose is to carry out accurate strikes while protecting itself from enemy air defense systems.
PAK first rejected Z-10 and why has it adopted it now?
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 was forced to go for this option after the US and Turkish options failed. The deals for AH-1Z Viper from the US and T129B ATAK from turkey could not happen due to US sanctions, forcing pakistan to look towards China.
Will this change the power balance?
The deployment of Z-10ME-02 certainly increases the firepower of Pakistan's army, but it is not at par with India's platforms like Apache and LCH Prachand. india already has attack helicopters that have been tested and used in successful operations in high altitude areas. Apart from this, india is also moving towards self-reliance in helicopter technology, which will give it long-term strategic advantage.
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