The Pakistan Army has officially welcomed its initial set of Chinese-manufactured Z-10ME attack helicopters during a ceremony at the Multan Army Aviation Base. Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir presided over the event and conducted a personal inspection of one of the newly received helicopters. Throughout the ceremony, he was observed warmly interacting with Chinese personnel involved in the initiative.
The event was attended by government officials, senior military leaders, and representatives from the Chinese defense sector. The helicopter is armed with CM-502 air-to-surface missiles, TY-90 air-to-air missiles mounted on one side of the fuselage, and a 70mm guided rocket launcher.
#ISPR
Rawalpindi, 02 August 2025Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS), #Pakistan Army, visited Multan Garrison. #Z10ME #China#COAS witnessed firepower demonstration by the newly inducted Z-10ME helicopters at the Muzaffargarh Field Firing Ranges.… pic.twitter.com/mSlLlfPnv6
— Pakistan Armed Forces News 🇵🇰 (@PakistanFauj) August 2, 2025
Beyond its armament, the Z-10ME is equipped with a Directed Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM) system, designed to enhance its survivability against infrared-guided missiles in combat scenarios.
Manufactured by China’s state-owned aviation industry and provided through military cooperation agreements, this variant is focused on export and is an upgraded version of the original Z-10. It has been enhanced with features suited for hot and high-altitude conditions as well as low-level survivability.
Chinese defense industry officials have stated that the Z-10ME was specifically adapted for international clients, incorporating improvements in armor, sensors, and electronic warfare capabilities. The helicopter is intended for close air support, armed reconnaissance, and anti-armor missions.
The introduction of the Z-10ME occurs at a time when the Pakistan Army Aviation Corps is aiming to broaden and modernize its attack helicopter fleet, following prolonged delays in other procurement initiatives. Previous attempts to secure Turkish-built T129 ATAK helicopters faced challenges due to export restrictions concerning U.S.-made engines.
The Pakistan Army has utilized a range of rotary-wing aircraft for many years; however, the Z-10ME signifies a transition to a more specialized attack helicopter configuration, featuring integrated sensors and precision-guided munitions. Its DIRCM system, along with contemporary missile armament, establishes it as a forward-deployed resource adept at functioning in contested airspace.
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