The Pakistan Army has inducted Z-10ME attack helicopters to reinforce its “integrated battlefield response”, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Saturday.
The Z-10 attack helicopter from the Aviation Industry Corporation of China was showcased for the first time beyond its home nation at the Singapore Airshow in February 2024, as reported by Reuters. It also mentioned that at that time, Pakistan was the sole recognized export customer for the model, although no sales were disclosed during the air show.
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir led the induction ceremony and subsequently observed a firepower demonstration by the “recently acquired Z-10ME helicopters” at the Muzaffargarh Field Firing Ranges, the ISPR stated in a press release, without detailing the quantity of aircraft obtained.
“The implementation of this powerful system signifies a significant advancement in the modernization of Army Aviation, enhancing its cohesive battlefield response and ability to produce impactful results against possible foes,” the military’s media affairs division stated.
In 2021, Defense News stated that China dispatched three Z-10 helicopter gunships for testing in Pakistan, but they did not meet the expectations of officials and were sent back.
Former Australian defence attaché to Islamabad, Brian Cloughley, mentioned that it was “probable the Pakistan Army will assess the Chinese Z-10ME attack helicopter.”
The ISPR emphasized: “This advanced, all-weather system can conduct precision strike missions both day and night.
“Fitted with state-of-the-art radar technology and modern electronic warfare systems, the Z-10ME greatly improves the military’s ability to confront various aerial and terrestrial threats.”
During his visit to the Muzaffargarh firing ranges, COAS Munir praised the troops for their outstanding morale, professionalism, and combat skills.
He valued the “effective showcase of integrated arms strategies, demonstrating the military’s strong determination to preserve a significant advantage in the changing nature of combat.”
Individually, Field Marshal Munir emphasized the significance of national cohesion and collaboration between military and civilian sectors in addressing “hybrid threats.”
After his visit to Multan Garrison, he made the comments at an interactive session with members of academia and civic society.
According to the ISPR release, “he emphasized the importance of national unity, civil-military synergy, and a whole-of-nation approach in countering hybrid threats and fostering societal cohesion.”
The report further stated that COAS Munir received a briefing on the formation’s operational readiness and continuing training exercises at the garrison. The “unwavering commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity” was reiterated by him.
