Meet Z-10ME-02, a game changer super advanced attack helicopter given to Pakistan by China, can it compete with India’s Apache helicopter, which is stronger?
Islamabad: After facing defeat from India during Operation Sindoor, Pakistan is now strengthening its military power by acquiring the latest weapons. Recently, the neighbouring country officially confirmed its latest acquisition from its best friend, China. Islamabad has confirmed that Beijing has delivered the Z-10ME-02 helicopter. According to the Pakistan Army Aviation Corps (PAA), it has inducted the Z-10ME-02 attack helicopter into its fleet, which was delivered by China. With this acquisition, Pakistan will replace its old Bell AH-1F/S Cobra helicopters after decades.
The Pakistan Army Aviation Corps has confirmed that it has inducted these helicopters into its fleet at a ceremony held at the Multan Army Aviation Base on August 2. Pakistan Army Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir attended the ceremony and watched the live demonstration of ‘Made in China Z-10ME02 helicopter.
Made In China Z-10ME-02 Chopper
This helicopter has been developed by China’s Changhe Aircraft Industries Corporation. The Z-10ME-02 is a double-engine helicopter, which is reportedly a 7.2-tonne platform, 14.2 meters long and has a payload capacity of 1500 kg. According to Defense News, this is the same helicopter that China sent three of its Z-10 helicopter gunships to Pakistan for testing in 2021, but these three helicopters failed to perform and were rejected and sent back by Pakistani officials. But now Pakistan has welcomed these helicopters, from which it can be understood that the Pakistani government has purchased these helicopters due to Chinese pressure.
Pakistan gets Z-10ME-02 Helicopter
The Made In China helicopter is loaded with anti-tank guided missiles, laser-guided rockets, air-to-air missiles and miniature cruise missiles like the CM-501X.
Its missile can be enhanced with non-line-of-sight (NLoS).
the Z-10ME-02 helicopter can be equipped with anti-tank guided missiles, laser-guided rockets, air-to-air missiles and miniature cruise missiles like the CM-501X. Its missile can be upgraded with non-line of sight (NLoS).
When this deal was done, Pakistan had said that the chopper was being designed as per the needs of the Pakistani Air Force.
Z-10ME-02 Features And Capabilities
This military chopper is equipped with an engine intake filtration system, ceramic Armor plating, upgraded engine and advanced defensive aid suite. Apart from this, it is capable of radar warning, laser warning, missile alert system electronic jamming, which will help it protect itself from enemy air defence systems.
Z-10ME-02 vs India’s LCH Pracn
It is worth noting that Z-10ME-02 is the most advanced helicopter in China’s arsenal. To counter it, India has indigenous LCH Prachand helicopter and the US’s Apache helicopter. Apache is one of the most advanced choppers in the world and known as a flying tank due to its destructive capability.
On the other hand India has its own LCH Prachand, which is specially designed for operations in the Himalayan region.
Notably, the kind of performance LCH Prachand can give in high mountains, the Chinese Z-10ME-02 helicopter cannot give.
To take a lead, Pakistan had earlier tried to buy American AH-1Z Viper and Turkey’s T129B ATAK helicopter, but both deals went into the cold box due to sanctions.
Competition With India’s Apache Helicopter
India’s Apache AH-64E Guardian attack helicopter is loaded with the latest in American combat technology. Its effectiveness and combat skills are demonstrated in various global conflicts.
It has a weight of approx 10.4 tons and capable of carrying more than 2,500 kg of payload.
It is outfitted with advanced weaponry and sensors, including Hellfire missiles, Hydra rockets, a 30 mm chain gun, and a Longbow radar system. The Apache is known for its unmatched performance in challenging environments, featuring dual engines, anti-collision systems, and state-of-the-art night vision and targeting capabilities.
If we compare Z-10ME with Apache its less advanced in terms of technology and reliability, particularly regarding its accuracy, payload capacity, and established performance in combat situations.
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