Pakistan deploys Chinese Z-10ME attack helicopters

Reports circulating on Pakistani social media suggest that the country has begun deploying Chinese Z-10ME attack helicopters—an upgraded variant of the standard Z-10, modified to meet the specific needs of the Pakistani military. According to Chinese sources, the Z-10ME features several key improvements, including enhanced protection, upgraded engines, and advanced electronic warfare and self-defense systems.

Chinese media describe the Z-10ME as the most capable version of the helicopter to date, designed to operate effectively even in high-threat environments. The possibility of Pakistan acquiring these aircraft has been a topic of discussion among defense analysts for several years, and the latest reports have drawn significant attention. However, at this stage, there is still no independent confirmation that the helicopters have officially entered service with the Pakistani armed forces.

The primary competitor to the Z-10 in Pakistan’s attack helicopter procurement process was the Turkish T129 ATAK. Back in 2015, Pakistan acquired three Z-10 units to evaluate their potential as replacements for its aging fleet of Bell AH-1F Cobra helicopters. However, the offer was ultimately declined due to issues with the Chinese WZ-9 engine, which did not meet Pakistan’s operational requirements. Following that, the T129 ATAK won the contract. However, the deal later fell through due to export restrictions imposed by the United States. These restrictions targeted key components of the T129’s engine, which rely on U.S.-made technology, effectively blocking the transfer.

In 2018, China unveiled the prototype of the Z-10ME. Then, in June 2022, Pakistan officially canceled its deal for the T129 ATAK. This development cleared the way for China to re-enter the picture, and Beijing began actively promoting the Z-10ME as a viable alternative for Pakistan’s attack helicopter needs.

Neither the Pakistani military nor the Chinese manufacturer, state-owned AVIC, has officially confirmed the delivery of Z-10ME attack helicopters to Pakistan. However, if reports of their deployment are eventually verified, it would mark a significant step in the deepening of military-technical cooperation between Pakistan and China. Such a move would also align with ongoing regional tensions and Pakistan’s broader efforts to modernize its helicopter fleet.