Pakistan Buys Chinese Attack Helicopter It Once Rejected

Pakistan appears to have inducted the Chinese-made Z-10ME attack helicopter into its military arsenal, a variant of the same helicopter China has deployed in Tibet near the Indian border.

Images and videos circulating on Pakistani social media over the past week show the Z-10ME, bearing “Pakistan Army” markings and serial number “786-301,” conducting operations from a military base. The footage includes airborne sequences and ground maintenance scenes, suggesting the helicopters are now operational within the Pakistan Army Aviation Corps.

The Z-10ME is the export version of China’s Z-10, which the PLA has deployed in the high-altitude regions of Tibet. The export model is reportedly more advanced, featuring upgraded engines, titanium-ceramic armour, AESA-based missile warning systems, and a suite of electronic countermeasures.

Pakistan’s purchase of Chinese attack helicopters comes after Rawalpindi had earlier rejected the option in favour of the Turkish T129 ATAK. However, the deal fell through after the United States refused to supply the engines required for the helicopters.

Chinese defence analysts claim the Z-10ME outperforms India’s US-made Apache helicopters in similar terrain, though the poor performance of Chinese-made equipment used by Pakistan during Operation Sindoor suggests such claims may be more hype than reality.

Armed with CM-502KG air-to-ground missiles with a 25km range, a 23mm cannon, and six weapon stations, the Z-10ME marks a major upgrade over Pakistan’s ageing fleet of AH-1F Cobras and Russian Mi-35s.

Meanwhile, India is also modernising its attack helicopter fleet. On July 22, the Indian Army received its first AH-64E Apache Guardians, adding to the 22 already operated by the Indian Air Force. India has also placed a major order for 156 indigenously built Prachand Light Combat Helicopters, with 66 going to the Air Force and 90 to the Army.