The Pakistan Army has formally inducted the advanced Chinese-origin Z-10ME attack helicopter into its aviation wing, marking a significant step in its ongoing military modernisation efforts.
The induction was announced during Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir’s recent visit to Multan Garrison, where he reviewed the operational readiness of the formation and witnessed key advancements in combat capabilities.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the visit included a comprehensive briefing on training activities and upgrades in aviation assets, with the spotlight on the Z-10ME—an enhanced version of China’s Z-10 attack helicopter designed specifically for export.
Is Z-10ME a leap in capability?
The Z-10ME, manufactured by the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), is a modern, multirole attack helicopter equipped with state-of-the-art avionics, precision targeting systems, and all-weather operational capability, including night vision systems.
Designed to support both anti-armour missions and close air support (CAS), the helicopter enhances the Pakistan Army’s ability to deliver rapid and lethal strikes across varied terrain and combat scenarios.
This latest variant of the Z-10 platform includes improved survivability features, such as infrared suppressors, advanced missile warning systems, and enhanced armour protection for the cockpit.
The helicopter is capable of deploying air-to-ground missiles, rockets, and a 30mm cannon, making it a versatile platform for counterinsurgency operations and conventional warfare.
Is the X-10ME induction of strategic and geopolitical significance?
The induction of the Z-10ME also reflects deepening military ties between Pakistan and China. It comes at a time when Pakistan has been diversifying its defence procurements in light of strained ties with traditional Western suppliers.
With the addition of the Z-10ME, Islamabad continues to lean on Beijing as its primary defence partner, complementing previous acquisitions like the JF-17 fighter jets and HQ-9 air defence systems.
The move is also seen as a response to India’s own modernisation of its rotary-wing fleet, including the acquisition of Apache AH-64E attack helicopters from the United States.
While the Z-10ME may not match the Apache in terms of sensor fusion and network-centric warfare capabilities, its cost-effectiveness and tailored configuration for export markets make it an attractive option for Pakistan’s defence planners.
What is the Pakistan Army’s modernisation focus?
The Pakistan Army’s focus on upgrading its aviation wing signals a broader effort to improve mobility, intelligence, and firepower in asymmetric and high-intensity conflict environments.
With ongoing counterterrorism operations in its western border regions and rising conventional challenges along the eastern frontier, platforms like the Z-10ME provide tactical edge and operational flexibility.
The induction of the Z-10ME attack helicopter marks a substantial enhancement in Pakistan’s battlefield capabilities. Beyond the symbolic value, it reflects concrete progress in its modernisation drive, underscores China’s growing role in regional defence partnerships, and reaffirms Pakistan’s pursuit of tactical deterrence in an increasingly competitive strategic environment.