Z-10ME Helicopters Enter Pakistani Service
On August 2, 2025, Pakistan took a major step in upgrading its military strength by officially inducting the Chinese-built Z-10ME attack helicopters into its Army Aviation Corps. Following the induction ceremony at Multan Garrison, a live firepower display was held at the Muzaffargarh Field Firing Ranges.
The Z-10ME helicopters shown their capacity to execute accurate strikes and function effectively under actual combat circumstances. This is the first time China has sold the Z-10ME abroad. It also shows how closely Pakistan and China are working together on military matters.
The Z-10ME has been designed for high-altitude missions and is expected to replace Pakistan’s ageing fleet of AH-1F Cobra helicopters. These older American-made helicopters were first added to Pakistan’s forces in the 1980s and are no longer able to meet today’s battlefield demands. The new Z-10ME helicopters can perform in tough environments, including hot, dusty, and mountainous regions.
The helicopter is equipped with powerful twin WZ-9G engines, advanced radar systems, and electronic warfare tools. It can carry anti-tank missiles, air-to-air weapons, and precision rockets. With six external weapon mounts, it can also launch drones and loitering munitions, giving it multi-role capabilities.
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The Z-10ME’s special features include exhaust systems that reduce heat visibility, which helps protect it from heat-seeking missiles. Its body includes composite armor, and the sensors allow it to fly and strike targets at night and in bad weather. All of these features make it an important addition to Pakistan’s attack helicopter fleet.
Failed Deals, China Steps In
Pakistan’s move toward the Z-10ME came after several failed efforts to buy advanced attack helicopters from Western countries. Over the years, Pakistan tried to upgrade its Cobra fleet with newer helicopters, including the Turkish-made T-129 ATAK. However, that deal fell through because the engines needed for the T-129 are made in the United States, and export permission was denied.
Another plan to buy more AH-1Z Viper helicopters from the United States also hit roadblocks due to political and diplomatic issues. These repeated obstacles pushed Pakistan to look elsewhere for reliable and modern aircraft.
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China then became the go-to option. The Z-10ME is a dedicated attack helicopter developed by China’s aviation industry. It’s often compared to the U.S. AH-64 Apache and Russia’s Mi-28 Havoc. While it may not match every feature of the Apache, it offers many similar combat abilities at a lower cost and with easier access.
Pakistan already operates the Chinese J-10C fighter jets, which it received recently as part of a growing military relationship with China. This collaboration is strengthened even more with the addition of the Z-10ME helicopters. It also marks a deeper shift in Pakistan’s defense buying strategy, moving away from Western dependence and closer to Chinese technology.
Z-10ME vs Indian Apache AH-64E
India has already inducted the American AH-64E Apache helicopters, known for their battlefield toughness and advanced systems. The Apaches are combat-proven and have served in wars around the world. They carry powerful radar systems, modern electronics, and long-range Hellfire missiles.
Pakistan’s Z-10ME, although newer, brings several strengths. Given Pakistan’s mountainous boundaries, its ability to fly in high-altitude areas is crucial. Its engines are specially designed to perform well in thin air and hot climates.
While the Apache has an edge in battle history and some technology, the Z-10ME is designed to meet Pakistan’s specific needs. It can carry a wide range of weapons and can work together with drones and ground forces. Its sensor systems are modern, and its protection against missiles is built-in with electronic countermeasures and low heat emissions.
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Experts believe Pakistan has already received around 4 to 8 Z-10MEs, with plans to increase that number. These helicopters are likely to be placed in critical zones including the eastern border, counter-terrorism zones in the northwest, and other areas where rapid deployment is required.
Both helicopters are a component of the region’s larger military modernization initiatives. While the Apache remains the more advanced option in some areas, the Z-10ME gives Pakistan a locally tailored platform backed by solid logistics and a strong relationship with the supplier.
The Z-10ME will be integrated into Pakistan’s larger digital battlefield system. This will help in combining operations with ground troops, air defense systems, and surveillance drones.