Pakistan Army Inducts Chinese Z-10ME Attack Helicopters

Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, officially inducted Chinese-made Z‑10ME attack helicopters into the Pakistan Army Aviation Corps via a ceremony at the Multan Garrison. The event included a live firepower demonstration at the Muzaffargarh Field Firing Ranges. The Z‑10ME, an advanced export variant, provides true all-weather, day and night precision strike capabilities, complete with radar, electronic warfare systems, and upgraded engines. Its addition represents a significant modernization milestone for the Army’s air arsenal and battlefield response readiness.

• Platform Introduced: The Z‑10ME attack helicopter was officially inducted into the Pakistan Army. 

• Ceremony Detail: Held at Multan Garrison; ceremony presided over by COAS Field Marshal Asim Munir. 

• Live Demo: Firepower demonstration showcased precision strike and maneuverability. 

• All‑Weather Capability: Engineered for precision engagement both day and night.

• Advanced Systems: Equipped with radar, electronic warfare suites, and EO sensors.

• Strategic Upgrade: Marks a leap in Army Aviation modernization.

Originally evaluated in 2015, earlier Z‑10 variants fell short due to engine limitations. The newer Z‑10ME includes a WZ‑9G engine with over 50% more power, better high-altitude performance, and improved payload capacity.

Z‑10ME features six hardpoints, supporting:

• Up to 16 CM-502KG anti-tank missiles (25 km range),

• TY-90 air-to-air missiles for helicopter engagements,

• GR5 guided rockets and compatibility with CM-501XA loitering munitions,

• A 30 mm cannon upgrade with higher ammo capacity.
  Infrared suppression and ceramic armor further improve survivability.

With radar and EO targeting systems, the helicopter performs precision missions in complex environments—mountainous terrain, desert operations, or counterinsurgency zones. It extends Pakistan’s strike envelope significantly.

COAS Engagement

Field Marshal Munir reviewed operational preparedness, witnessed the firepower exhibition, and interacted with soldiers and civil society leaders, emphasising civil-military synergy and holistic national defense strategy.

Combined-Arm Demonstration

The firing session demonstrated integrated tactics, affirming the Z‑10ME’s compatibility with ground forces and UAV systems for orchestrated strike missions.

On forums like Reddit and defense platforms, analysts noted the upgrade:

“Pakistan’s Z‑10 evaluation began in 2015... but only with the Z‑10ME’s upgraded engine and avionics did it become a viable acquisition.”

Defense watchers also highlight the move as Pakistan’s pivot from dependency on U.S.-licensed platforms toward self-managed Chinese systems.

The induction of the Z‑10ME attack helicopter marks a transformational leap in Pakistan Army Aviation. From high-precision strike capabilities in all weather, rugged terrain tolerance, advanced armament integration, to combined-arms interoperability—this platform strengthens Pakistan’s defense posture significantly. Beyond tactical impact, the move showcases Pakistan’s deepening strategic alignment with China, and reflects a broader trend of moving toward modern, indigenously supported military assets.