Chinese attack helicopters inducted into Pakistan Army fleet to boost ‘battlefield response’

RAWALPINDI: The Pakistan Army on Saturday formally inducted the Chinese-made Z-10ME attack helicopter into its aviation fleet, marking a significant boost to the military’s aerial combat capabilities and its capacity to deliver precision strikes against potential threats.

Field Marshal Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), presided over the induction ceremony, which was held at the Muzaffargarh field firing ranges.

The Changhe Z-10 is a Chinese medium-weight, twin-turboshaft attack helicopter, which was built by the Changhe Aircraft Industries Corporation previously for the People’s Liberation Army Ground Force Aviation.

The state-of-the-art, all-weather platform is capable of precision strike operations day and night.

Equipped with advanced radar systems and cutting-edge electronic warfare suites, the Z-10ME significantly enhances the Army’s capability to engage diverse aerial and ground threats, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.

The COAS also witnessed firepower demonstration by the newly inducted Z-10ME helicopters at the Muzaffargarh field firing ranges.

The media wing of Pakistan Army further stated that the induction of the potent system marks a major leap in modernisation of Army Aviation, reinforcing its integrated battlefield response and capacity to deliver decisive effects against potential adversaries.

The COAS, while expressing satisfaction over the high standards of readiness, reaffirmed the Pakistan Army’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity. He visited Multan Garrison also. At Multan Corps Headquarters, the COAS was briefed on the formation’s operational preparedness and ongoing training activities. The COAS also engaged with members of academia and civil society in an interactive session, where he underscored the significance of national unity, civil-military synergy, and a whole-of-nation approach in countering hybrid threats and fostering societal cohesion. Interacting with troops at Multan Garrison, the COAS lauded their exceptional morale, professionalism, and combat proficiency. He appreciated the successful demonstration of combined arms tactics, reflecting the Army’s firm resolve to maintain a decisive edge in the evolving character of warfare.

Earlier, upon arrival at the Multan Garrison, the COAS was warmly received by the corps commander Multan.