The “Arab News” reported on August 2 that the Pakistani military stated that the Pakistani Army had incorporated the Made in China Z-10ME armed helicopter into its ground forces, aiming to promote the modernization of national defense equipment. A military expert interviewed by the Global Times on August 2 mentioned that this multifunctional helicopter plays a significant role on the battlefield.
According to the Public Relations Department of the Pakistani Armed Forces,
This advanced all-weather combat platform has the capability for precise strikes both day and night.
The Z-10ME helicopter is equipped with an advanced radar system and cutting-edge electronic warfare kit, significantly enhancing Pakistan’s ability to respond to various air and ground threats.
The Chief of the Pakistani Army, General Muhammad Nur, presided over the helicopter deployment ceremony at the Multan base. The Public Relations Department of the Pakistani Armed Forces stated in a declaration that General Muhammad observed the firepower demonstration of the newly deployed Z-10ME helicopter at the Mulzafargarh Open Range. “The installation of this powerful system marks a significant breakthrough in the modernization of the Army Air Force’s capabilities, strengthening its integrated battlefield response and decisive strike effectiveness against potential adversaries.”
In February 2024, the China Aviation Industry Group showcased the Z-10ME armed helicopter at the Singapore Airshow for the first time, drawing significant attention from the international community. A spokesperson for the China Aviation Industry Group responded to questions from Singapore’s Lianhe Zaobao, stating that this was the first time the Z-10ME was exhibited abroad at an international airshow, aimed at “highlighting the latest research achievements in military helicopters and demonstrating the technological innovation strength of the helicopter industry, promoting targeted marketing for key users.” Igor Bogino夫斯基, a special contributor to the British “Jane’s Fighter Weapon Review,” believes that the Z-10ME is highly attractive due to its performance and capabilities in certain aspects, comparable to U.S. models such as the “Apache” helicopter.
Photo Source: China Aviation Industry Corporation
An anonymous military expert told Global Times on the 2nd that China’s industrial sector has been developing the Zhi-10ME for many years, and its technical performance and condition are very stable. As a medium-sized armed helicopter, it can play an important role in various situations, with strong flexibility, quick response, and strong support and combat capabilities. “As an armed helicopter, it mainly targets enemy tank formations on the battlefield. The Zhi-10ME can carry air-to-air missiles to counteract enemy armed helicopters, and even launch attacks against enemy attack aircraft. Therefore, this type of helicopter is versatile and can play a significant role on the battlefield,” said the military expert. Additionally, the model is relatively affordable and has strong market competitiveness, which is why Pakistan will purchase this type of armed helicopter.
According to public reports, on March 11, 2022, the Pakistani Air Force held the first installation ceremony for the first batch of six J-10CE fighter jets at Kabul. This year, the export version of the J-10CE fighter jet achieved practical results in combat, single-handedly downing multiple enemy aircraft without any losses. In response, Defense Ministry spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang stated during a routine meeting on May 29: We want to emphasize that India and Pakistan are irremovable neighbors. We hope both sides maintain calm and restraint to avoid further complexifying the situation, and China is willing to continue playing a constructive role in maintaining regional peace and stability.
A message posted on the official website of the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan announced that on August 1, the Pakistani Army held a special event to celebrate the 98th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army of China. Ambassador Jiang Zaidong stated in his speech that both China and Pakistan are steel walls safeguarding national security and are important forces for maintaining world peace. Both armies are united and unbreakable, with fruitful exchanges and cooperation outcomes.
Munai expressed his warm congratulations to the Chinese military and stated that the relationship between Pakistan and China is as solid as a rock. The two armies are always iron brothers. Pakistan is willing to continuously strengthen their unity and cooperation, always serving as a pillar in maintaining the common interests of both countries and promoting peace and development in the region.