Pakistan likely to buy Z-10ME combat attack helicopters fleet: Sources
Shares
ISLAMABAD - The Z-10 attack helicopter variant, also referred to as the Z-10ME, is being manufactured by Changhe Aircraft Industries Corporation (CAIC). Recently, this advanced attack helicopter’s images went viral over social media networks, with many military forums and the military experts and analysts are of the view that the helicopters are ready for the market.
With potential buyers like Pakistan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Malaysia and Thailand already showing their interest in procuring them, these attack helicopters present a cost-effective option for bolstering the offensive capabilities of military forces.
Let’s have a look at some of the pictures of the modified Z-10ME Attack Helicopters circulating over the web.
[image: Z-10ME Attack Helicopter]
[image: Z-10ME Helicopter]
Defence experts believe that the new variant, which has a 1200 kW turboshaft engine compared to Z-10’s 935 kW, has entered into production following the successful trials of Z-10 in Pakistan in 2016.
More advanced electrical systems accompanied with heavier armor make Z-10ME a more lethal attack helicopter and the potential buyers would be eyeing to get their hands on it once it goes up for sale in the global arms market.
Pakistan’s efforts to beef up its military equipment through the purchase of 30 T129 and 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters might be hampered as the Coalition Support Fund (CSF) and Foreign Military Financing (FMF) programs stand cancelled, meaning that AH-1Z deal is off for now.
While there is no official word about the US sanctions on the procurement of T129 helicopters from Turkey, it is believed that there are some hurdles that may delay this deal for the foreseeable future.
In this case, the new Z-10ME can serve as a viable alternative for Pakistan, if it opts to procure the low-cost yet fully-featured helicopters.
