ISLAMABAD – The Z-10 attack helicopter variant, also referred to as theZ-10ME, is being manufactured by Changhe Aircraft Industries Corporation(CAIC). Recently, this advanced attack helicopter’s images went viral oversocial media networks, with many military forums and the military expertsand analysts are of the view that the helicopters are ready for the market.

With potential buyers like Pakistan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Malaysiaand Thailand already showing their interest in procuring them, these attackhelicopters present a cost-effective option for bolstering the offensivecapabilities of military forces.

Let’s have a look at some of the pictures of the modified Z-10ME AttackHelicopters circulating over the web.

[image: Z-10ME Attack Helicopter]

[image: Z-10ME Helicopter]

Defence experts believe that the new variant, which has a 1200 kWturboshaft engine compared to Z-10’s 935 kW, has entered into productionfollowing the successful trials of Z-10 in Pakistan in 2016.

More advanced electrical systems accompanied with heavier armor make Z-10MEa more lethal attack helicopter and the potential buyers would be eyeing toget 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 purchaseof 30 T129 and 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters might be hampered asthe 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 procurementof T129 helicopters from Turkey, it is believed that there are some hurdlesthat may delay this deal for the foreseeable future.

In this case, the new Z-10ME can serve as a viable alternative forPakistan, if it opts to procure the low-cost yet fully-featured helicopters.