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| manufacturer = [[Changhe Aircraft Industries Corporation]] (CAIC)
| manufacturer = [[Changhe Aircraft Industries Corporation]] (CAIC)
| unit cost = US$ 17 million <ref>{{Cite web |url=http://stateofguns.com/caic-z-10-attack-helicopter-1454/#.V60MdPkrJQI |title=CAIC Z-10 Attack Helicopter |date=22 May 2014 |access-date=2016-08-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160812173655/http://stateofguns.com/caic-z-10-attack-helicopter-1454/#.V60MdPkrJQI |archive-date=2016-08-12 |url-status=live }}</ref>
| unit cost = US$ 17 million <ref>{{Cite web |url=http://stateofguns.com/caic-z-10-attack-helicopter-1454/#.V60MdPkrJQI |title=CAIC Z-10 Attack Helicopter |date=22 May 2014 |access-date=2016-08-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160812173655/http://stateofguns.com/caic-z-10-attack-helicopter-1454/#.V60MdPkrJQI |archive-date=2016-08-12 |url-status=live }}</ref>
| design_group = [[602nd Aircraft Design Institute]]<ref name="td_200226" /><br>[[Kamov Design Bureau]]<ref name="td_200226" />
| design_group = [[Kamov]]<ref name="flightglobal_1303">{{cite web |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/heli-expo-chinese-wz-10-attack-helicopter-based-on-kamov-383147/ |title=HELI-EXPO: Chinese WZ-10 attack helicopter based on Kamov design |last=Majumdar |first=Dave |date=7 Mar 2013 |website=Flight Global |access-date=3 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140625214154/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/heli-expo-chinese-wz-10-attack-helicopter-based-on-kamov-383147/ |archive-date=25 June 2014 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all }}</ref><ref name="Donald">{{cite news |title=Kamov Reveals Involvement in China's Z-10 Attack Helicopter |last=Donald |first=David |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2013-03-15/kamov-reveals-involvement-chinas-z-10-attack-helicopter |work=Aviation International News |location=Midland Park, New Jersey |date=15 March 2013 |access-date=18 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011041026/https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2013-03-15/kamov-reveals-involvement-chinas-z-10-attack-helicopter |archive-date=11 October 2023}}</ref><ref name="aw_1303">{{cite web |url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/russian-roots-revealed-chinas-z-10 |title=Russian Roots Revealed In China's Z-10 |date=7 Mar 2013 |website=Aviation Week |access-date=3 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714215126/http://aviationweek.com/defense/russian-roots-revealed-chinas-z-10 |archive-date=14 July 2014 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all }}</ref><ref name="kamovbi">{{cite web |url=http://www.businessinsider.in/Chinas-Cutting-Edge-Attack-Helicopter-Is-Actually-A-Russian-Design/articleshow/21282170.cms |title=China's Cutting-Edge Attack Helicopter Is Actually A Russian Design |last=Ingersoll |first=Geoffrey |date=8 Mar 2013 |website=Business Insider |access-date=3 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714185817/http://www.businessinsider.in/Chinas-Cutting-Edge-Attack-Helicopter-Is-Actually-A-Russian-Design/articleshow/21282170.cms |archive-date=14 July 2014 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
| first_flight = 29 April 2003<ref name="maiden">{{cite web|url=https://www.stdaily.com/index/kejixinwen/202304/87f49734c5de490683eda12ec5f9c7cf.shtml |title=直10首飞20周年:"霹雳火"铁翼飞旋二十载 |website=ST Daily |date=28 April 2023 }}</ref>
| first_flight = 29 April 2003
| introduction = December 2012
| introduction = 2009
| retired =
| retired =
| status = In service<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/blogs/the-dewline/2011/02/chinas-1st-attack-helo-goes-op.html|title=China's 1st attack helo goes operational? - The DEW Line|work=The DEW Line|access-date=4 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105023213/http://www.flightglobal.com/blogs/the-dewline/2011/02/chinas-1st-attack-helo-goes-op.html|archive-date=5 November 2012|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
| status = In service<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/blogs/the-dewline/2011/02/chinas-1st-attack-helo-goes-op.html|title=China's 1st attack helo goes operational? - The DEW Line|work=The DEW Line|access-date=4 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121105023213/http://www.flightglobal.com/blogs/the-dewline/2011/02/chinas-1st-attack-helo-goes-op.html|archive-date=5 November 2012|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref>
| primary_user = [[People's Liberation Army Ground Force]] <br> [[Pakistan Army Aviation Corps]]
| primary_user = [[People's Liberation Army Ground Force]]<br>[[People's Liberation Army Air Force]]<br>[[Pakistan Army Aviation Corps]]
| produced = 2003-present
| produced = 2003-present
| number_built =
| number_built =
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}}
}}


The '''Changhe Z-10''' ({{lang-zh|直-10}}, "helicopter-10") is a Chinese (developed together with Russian Kamov bureau) medium [[attack helicopter]] developed for the [[People's Liberation Army Ground Force]]. It is designed primarily for [[anti-tank warfare]] missions but has secondary [[air-to-air combat]] capability as well.
The '''Changhe Z-10''' ({{lang-zh|s=直-10|p=Zhí-Shí|l=helicopter-10}}) is a Chinese medium-weight, twin-[[turboshaft]] [[attack helicopter]] built by the [[Changhe Aircraft Industries Corporation]] for the [[People's Liberation Army Ground Force]]. Designed by [[602nd Aircraft Design Institute]] of [[Aviation Industry Corporation of China]] (AVIC) and [[Kamov Design Bureau]],<ref name="td_200226" /> the aircraft is intended primarily for [[anti-tank warfare]] missions with secondary [[air-to-air combat]] capability.


The plan to develop a medium-weight helicopter program was initiated in 1994 with the attack helicopter program formally beginning in 1998. The preliminary design of the aircraft was provided by Kamov, while [[prototyping]] was conducted by the 602nd Aircraft Design Institute of [[Aviation Industry Corporation]] of China (AVIC).<ref name="flightglobal_1303">{{cite web |url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/heli-expo-chinese-wz-10-attack-helicopter-based-on-kamov-383147/ |title=HELI-EXPO: Chinese WZ-10 attack helicopter based on Kamov design |last=Majumdar |first=Dave |date=7 Mar 2013 |website=Flight Global |access-date=3 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140625214154/http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/heli-expo-chinese-wz-10-attack-helicopter-based-on-kamov-383147/ |archive-date=25 June 2014 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all }}</ref><ref name="Donald">{{cite news |title=Kamov Reveals Involvement in China's Z-10 Attack Helicopter |last=Donald |first=David |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2013-03-15/kamov-reveals-involvement-chinas-z-10-attack-helicopter |work=Aviation International News |location=Midland Park, New Jersey |date=15 March 2013 |access-date=18 January 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231011041026/https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2013-03-15/kamov-reveals-involvement-chinas-z-10-attack-helicopter |archive-date=11 October 2023}}</ref><ref name="aw_1303">{{cite web |url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/russian-roots-revealed-chinas-z-10 |title=Russian Roots Revealed In China's Z-10 |date=7 Mar 2013 |website=Aviation Week |access-date=3 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714215126/http://aviationweek.com/defense/russian-roots-revealed-chinas-z-10 |archive-date=14 July 2014 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all }}</ref><ref name="kamovbi">{{cite web |url=http://www.businessinsider.in/Chinas-Cutting-Edge-Attack-Helicopter-Is-Actually-A-Russian-Design/articleshow/21282170.cms |title=China's Cutting-Edge Attack Helicopter Is Actually A Russian Design |last=Ingersoll |first=Geoffrey |date=8 Mar 2013 |website=Business Insider |access-date=3 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714185817/http://www.businessinsider.in/Chinas-Cutting-Edge-Attack-Helicopter-Is-Actually-A-Russian-Design/articleshow/21282170.cms |archive-date=14 July 2014 |url-status=live |df=dmy-all }}</ref> The Z-10 first flew on 29 April 2003<ref name="maiden"/> and entered Chinese Army Aviation service in 2009.<ref name="voa_1308"/><ref name="pd_12"/><ref name="xinhua_1707"/>
Initiated by chief designer Wu Ximing, the project had early [[Russia|Russian]] involvement with [[Kamov]] Design Bureau of Russia under a contract with the Chinese government, but the collaboration was abruptly stopped due to fundamental design philosophy disagreements. The Chinese designers and their customer, the [[People's Liberation Army General Armaments Department|PLA General Armaments Department]], preferred a lighter-weight, more agile [[airframe]] with less emphasis on armor. The helicopter was further developed by [[Changhe Aircraft Industries Corporation]] (CAIC) and is locally manufactured.<ref name="flightglobal_1303"/><ref name="aw_1303"/><ref name="kamovbi"/>


Nicknames of characters in the Chinese classic novel ''[[Water Margin]]'' have been used to name Z-10 and its light-weight counterpart, the [[Harbin Z-19]]: Z-10 is called '''Fierce Thunderbolt''' (Pi Li Huo, 霹雳火), the nickname of [[Qin Ming]], while Z-19 is called '''Black Whirlwind''' (Hei Xuan Feng, 黑旋风), the nickname of [[Li Kui (Water Margin)|Li Kui]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.qq.com/a/20121115/001407.htm|title=直10直19绰号"霹雳火""黑旋风"取自水浒传|access-date=4 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141113180143/http://news.qq.com/a/20121115/001407.htm|archive-date=13 November 2014|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.s1979.com/news/china/201211/1261665612.shtml|title=官方公布武直10及武直19名称:霹雳火与黑旋风|author=Copyright@中国时刻网、深圳广播电影电视集团|access-date=4 February 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131016013001/http://www.s1979.com/news/china/201211/1261665612.shtml|archive-date=16 October 2013}}</ref>
Nicknames of characters in the Chinese classic novel ''[[Water Margin]]'' have been used to name Z-10 and its light-weight counterpart, the [[Harbin Z-19]] by Chinese Army Aviation Corps; Z-10 is called '''Fierce Thunderbolt''' (Pi Li Huo, 霹雳火), the nickname of [[Qin Ming]], while Z-19 is called '''Black Whirlwind''' (Hei Xuan Feng, 黑旋风), the nickname of [[Li Kui (Water Margin)|Li Kui]].<ref name="andreas_1803">{{cite web|url=https://www.keymilitary.com/article/eye-east-2 |title=CHINA'S ARMY AVIATION |website=Key Military |date=1 March 2018 |first=Andreas |last=Rupprecht}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.qq.com/a/20121115/001407.htm|title=直10直19绰号"霹雳火""黑旋风"取自水浒传|access-date=4 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141113180143/http://news.qq.com/a/20121115/001407.htm|archive-date=13 November 2014|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.s1979.com/news/china/201211/1261665612.shtml|title=官方公布武直10及武直19名称:霹雳火与黑旋风|author=Copyright@中国时刻网、深圳广播电影电视集团|access-date=4 February 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131016013001/http://www.s1979.com/news/china/201211/1261665612.shtml|archive-date=16 October 2013}}</ref>

In September 2016, the PLA announced that all of its [[army aviation]] units had been equipped with the Z-10.<ref>[http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/archive-world-worldwide-news-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-military-defence-industry/global-defense-security-news/global-news-2016/september/2908-wz-10-attack-helicopter-now-deployed-in-all-pla-aviation-units.html WZ-10 attack helicopter now deployed in all PLA aviation units] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220063745/http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/archive-world-worldwide-news-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-military-defence-industry/global-defense-security-news/global-news-2016/september/2908-wz-10-attack-helicopter-now-deployed-in-all-pla-aviation-units.html |date=2016-12-20 }} - Airrecognition.com, 8 September 2016</ref>


==Development and history==
==Development and history==
===Background===
===Background===
The [[People's Liberation Army Ground Force]] (PLAGF) established its army aviation units in January 1988. The unit used helicopters transferred from [[People's Liberation Army Air Force]] (PLAAF), including [[Mil Mi-4]], [[Harbin Z-5]], [[Mil Mi-8]], and [[Aérospatiale Gazelle]]. By the mid-1980s, the Chinese decided to field dedicated [[attack helicopters]]. The brief honeymoon period between China and the West provided [[China]] opportunities to evaluate [[Agusta A129 Mangusta]], [[AH-1 Cobra]], and [[BGM-71 TOW]] missiles. However, the [[1989 Tiananmen Square protests and massacre]] and the proceeding arms embargo prevented many deals from going through. However, China also successfully imported or licensed aircraft types such as [[Changhe Z-8]], [[Harbin Z-9]], [[Sikorsky S-70]], [[Mi-17]], and [[Aerospatiale AS332 Super Puma]].<ref name="Rupprecht_1903">{{cite web|url=https://www.key.aero/article/pla-army-aviation-chinas-neglected-force |title=PLA ARMY AVIATION: CHINA'S NEGLECTED FORCE |website=Key Aero |date=7 March 2019 |first= Andreas |last=Rupprecht }}</ref>
The [[People's Liberation Army Ground Force]] (PLAGF) established its army aviation units in January 1988. The unit used helicopters transferred from [[People's Liberation Army Air Force]] (PLAAF), including [[Mil Mi-4]], [[Harbin Z-5]], [[Mil Mi-8]], and [[Aérospatiale Gazelle]]. By the mid-1980s, the Chinese decided to field dedicated [[attack helicopters]]. The brief honeymoon period between China and the West provided [[China]] opportunities to evaluate [[Agusta A129 Mangusta]], [[AH-1 Cobra]], and [[BGM-71 TOW]] missiles. However, the [[1989 Tiananmen Square protests and massacre]] and the proceeding arms embargo prevented many deals from going through. Nevertheless, China successfully imported or licensed aircraft types such as [[Changhe Z-8]], [[Harbin Z-9]], [[Sikorsky S-70]], [[Mi-17]], and [[Aerospatiale AS332 Super Puma]].<ref name="Rupprecht_1903">{{cite web|url=https://www.key.aero/article/pla-army-aviation-chinas-neglected-force |title=PLA ARMY AVIATION: CHINA'S NEGLECTED FORCE |website=Key Aero |date=7 March 2019 |first= Andreas |last=Rupprecht }}</ref>


There was also debate in China about whether the PLAGF or PLAAF should operate attack helicopters. Eventually, PLAGF won and began to induct armed helicopters based on [[Harbin Z-9]] design. The usage of Z-9WA modification helped China realize the requirement for a dedicated attack helicopter platform.<ref name="Rupprecht_1903" />
There was also debate in China about whether the PLAGF or PLAAF should operate attack helicopters. Eventually, the PLAGF won and began to induct armed helicopters based on the [[Harbin Z-9]] design. The use of the Z-9WA modification helped China realize the requirement for a dedicated attack helicopter platform.<ref name="Rupprecht_1903" />


===Development programs===
===Development programs===
[[File:Changhe WZ-10.jpg|thumb|Changhe Z-10 showcased at Airshow China 2012]]
China began to develop the 6-ton class China Helicopter Medium (CHM) program in 1994, headed by the 602nd and 608th Research Institutes.<ref>Hewson, Robert, "China's Z-10 helicopter built on Western expertise", Jane's Defence Weekly, 13 April 2005</ref> This program was later developed into [[Harbin Z-20]].<ref name="Rupprecht_1903" /> In 1995, China commissioned Kamov to develop a preliminary design for the 6-ton helicopter, known as Project 941 internally. Project 941 was a large departure from traditional Soviet design, focusing entirely on the Chinese requirement. The concept was then handed to China for further development, which Kamov did not participate in.<ref name="flightglobal_1303" />
A preprimary plan to develop an attack helicopter in China began in 1992.<ref name="voa_1308">{{cite web|url=https://www.voachinese.com/a/wz-10-live-drill-20130826/1737209.html |title=中国武直-10编队实射空空导弹 |website=Voice of America |date=27 August 2013 |author=陆杨 |language=zh }}</ref><ref name="pd_12">{{cite web|url=http://paper.people.com.cn/hqrw/html/2012-11/26/content_1148171.htm?div=-1 |title="武直—10",可与阿帕奇抗衡 |website=People's Daily |date=2012 |author=金凯 }}</ref> China began to develop the 6-ton class China Helicopter Medium (CHM) program in 1994, headed by the 602nd and 608th Research Institutes.<ref>Hewson, Robert, "China's Z-10 helicopter built on Western expertise", Jane's Defence Weekly, 13 April 2005</ref> This program was later developed into [[Harbin Z-20]].<ref name="Rupprecht_1903" /> In 1995, China commissioned Kamov to develop a preliminary design for the 6-ton helicopter, known as Project 941 internally. Project 941 was a large departure from traditional Soviet design, focusing entirely on the Chinese requirement. The concept was then handed to China for further development, which Kamov did not participate in.<ref name="flightglobal_1303" /> Based on the concept, Chinese engineers developed prototypes<ref name="flightglobal_1303" /> and iterate designs based on the testing results. The changes include modification on the airframe shapes to optimize [[radar cross section]] (RCS), changes on the engine bay shape to accommodate domestic engines, and the engine nozzle layout.<ref name="sina_1604">{{cite web|url=https://mil.sina.cn/sd/2016-04-20/detail-ifxriqqv6378899.d.html |title=深度:解析中国自研攻击直升机 为何比歼10还要保密 |website=Sina News |date=20 April 2016 }}</ref>


China also secured assistance from Eurocopter France for the rotor system and [[AgustaWestland]] in 1997 for the transmission system in 1998.<ref name="Donald" /> [[Pratt & Whitney Canada]] and [[Hamilton Sundstrand]] secretly provided PT6C-67C engines and digital engine control systems to aid the programs, leading to them receiving investigations and penalties from the United States government.<ref name="aw_1303"/><ref name="kamovbi"/><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/united-technologies-subsidiary-pleads-guilty-criminal-charges-helping-china-develop-new |title = United Technologies, Pratt & Whitney Canada and Hamilton Sundstrand Corporations Also Agree to Pay More Than $75 Million to U.S. Government |publisher = [[United States Department of Justice]] |date = 28 June 2012}}</ref>
Based on the concept, Chinese engineers developed prototypes<ref name="flightglobal_1303" /> and iterated designs based on the testing results. The changes include modification on the airframe shapes to optimize [[radar cross section]] (RCS), changes on the engine bay shape to accommodate domestic engines, and the engine nozzle layout.<ref name="sina_1604">{{cite web|url=https://mil.sina.cn/sd/2016-04-20/detail-ifxriqqv6378899.d.html |title=深度:解析中国自研攻击直升机 为何比歼10还要保密 |website=Sina News |date=20 April 2016 }}</ref>


In 1998, the 602nd Research Institute proposed the Special Armed Project to develop the final design,<ref name="Rupprecht_1903" /> which was designated the Z-10.<ref name="xinhua_1707">{{cite web|title=第一种国产武装直升机:"陆军之鹰"|publisher=Xinhua |date=19 July 2017 |url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/mil/2017-07/19/c_129659336.htm |archive-date=13 September 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170913180211/http://news.xinhuanet.com/mil/2017-07/19/c_129659336.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref> Initially, the Z-10 project was planned to share its propulsion system with the CHM program, however, the two programs were separated and the Z-10 was prioritized to be completed first.<ref name="andreas_1803"/> During the development in 2000, [[Denel]] also provided technical assistance to the project in the area of flight stability.<ref name="Donald"/> After the US government cut off engine sources from Pratt & Whitney, China turned to domestic replacements with lower thrust-rating, leading to further weight-saving design changes.<ref name="aw_1303"/> The replacement engine was the indigenous WZ-9 turboshaft.<ref name="Donald" />
China also secured assistance from Eurocopter France for the rotor system and [[AgustaWestland]] in 1997 for the transmission system in 1998.<ref name="Donald" /> [[Pratt & Whitney Canada]] and [[Hamilton Sundstrand]] secretly provided PT6C-67C engines and digital engine control systems to aid the programs, leading to their investigations and penalties from the American government.<ref name="aw_1303"/><ref name="kamovbi"/><ref>{{cite web |url = https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/united-technologies-subsidiary-pleads-guilty-criminal-charges-helping-china-develop-new |title = United Technologies, Pratt & Whitney Canada and Hamilton Sundstrand Corporations Also Agree to Pay More Than $75 Million to U.S. Government |publisher = [[United States Department of Justice]] |date = 28 June 2012}}
</ref>


David Donald of ''[[Aviation International News]]'' claimed the Z-10 had a universal engine bay capable of fitting various types of engines, including Ukrainian [[Motor Sich]] TV3-117.<ref name="Donald" /> However, Chinese sources indicated the TV3-117 is incompatible with the Z-10's engine bay due to the driveshaft shape and prototypes were fitted with either Pratt & Whitney PT6C-67C or Chinese-built [[Turbomeca Makila]] turboshaft engines, whereas the final version uses WZ-9 turboshaft engines due to its fully indigenous origin.<ref name="sina_1604" />
In 1998, the 602nd Research Institute proposed a Special Armed Project to develop the final design, which became the Z-10.<ref name="Rupprecht_1903" /> During the development in 2000, [[Denel]] also provided technical assistance to the project in the area of flight stability.<ref name="Donald"/> After the US government cut off engine sources from Pratt & Whitney, China turned to domestic replacements with lower thrust-rating, leading to further weight-saving design changes.<ref name="aw_1303"/> The intended Indigenous engine was the WZ-9 turboshaft.<ref name="Donald" />


The Z-10 took its maiden flight on 29 April 2003.<ref name="maiden"/> The Z-10 entered PLA service in 2009<ref name="voa_1308"/><ref name="pd_12"/><ref name="xinhua_1707"/> or 2010.<ref name="Rupprecht_1903" />
David Donald of ''[[Aviation International News]]'' claimed the Z-10 had a universal engine bay capable of fitting various types of engines, including Ukrainian [[Motor Sich]] TV3-117 for early production models.<ref name="Donald" /> However, Chinese sources indicated the TV3-117 is incompatible with the Z-10's engine bay due to the driveshaft shape, and prototypes were fitted with Chinese-built [[Turbomeca Makila]] turboshaft engines, whereas the final version uses WZ-9 turboshaft engines due to its fully indigenous origin.<ref name="sina_1604" />

The Z-10 entered service in 2010.<ref name="Rupprecht_1903" />


===Further development===
===Further development===
In March 2014, Z-10 helicopter began deck trials with a [[People's Liberation Army Navy]] [[Type 072A-class landing ship]]. The purpose may be to qualify the helicopter on ships to provide air support for landing parties launched from the ship. Type 072A-class ships have a helipad but no hangar or support facilities for the aircraft on board. The Z-10 may also be qualified on the larger [[Type 071 amphibious transport dock]].<ref>[http://navyrecognition.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1663 Chinese Army Z-10 Attack Helicopter conducts trials at sea with Navy Type 072A Landing Ship] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140323194519/http://navyrecognition.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1663 |date=2014-03-23 }} - Navyrecognition.com, 23 March 2014</ref>
In March 2014, the Z-10 helicopter began deck trials with a [[People's Liberation Army Navy]] [[Type 072A-class landing ship]]. The purpose may be to qualify the helicopter on ships to provide air support for landing parties launched from the ship. Type 072A-class ships have a helipad but no hangar or support facilities for the aircraft on board. The Z-10 may also be qualified on the larger [[Type 071 amphibious transport dock]].<ref>[http://navyrecognition.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1663 Chinese Army Z-10 Attack Helicopter conducts trials at sea with Navy Type 072A Landing Ship] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140323194519/http://navyrecognition.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1663 |date=2014-03-23 }} - Navyrecognition.com, 23 March 2014</ref>


The Z-10 was one of the contenders to replace [[Pakistan]]'s [[Bell AH-1 Cobra|Bell AH-1F Cobra]] attack helicopters. In 2015, Pakistan acquired three Z-10s for trials,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Gady |first1=Franz-Stefan |title=Did Pakistan Decide to Buy China's Newest Attack Helicopter? |url=https://thediplomat.com/2016/03/did-pakistan-decide-to-buy-chinas-newest-attack-helicopter/ |website=The Diplomat |date=24 March 2016 |access-date=14 January 2022}}</ref> but ultimately rejected the offer due to the inadequate WZ-9 engine.<ref name="sohu_me"/> After the failed bid, Chinese engineers began to upgrade to the Z-10 platform to improve its competitiveness.<ref name="sohu_me"/> A new prototype, designated Z-10ME, emerged in 2018 with a larger ammunition magazine size, new intake filtration systems, and new [[missile approach warning system]] (MAWS).<ref name="tkp_me0102"/> In the same year, more equipment was added to the prototype, such as a more powerful WZ-9C [[turboshaft]]<ref name="sohu_me"/> with {{cvt|1200|kW|shp}} power, new infrared signature-reducing engine exhaust nozzle, appliqué graphene-based armor plates, etc.<ref name="tkp_me0102"/><ref name="janes_2018_z10me"/>
==Design==
{{More citations needed|section|date=July 2011}}
[[File:Changhe WZ-10.jpg|thumb|Changhe Z-10]]


The PLAGF's domestic Z-10 fleet were upgraded to the Z-10ME standard with the {{cvt|1200|kW|shp}} engines, armor plates, and infrared suppresion nozzles.<ref name=wzzsj10c/><ref name="janes_201209"/><ref name="janes_231108"/> The Pakistan Army eventually purchased the Z-10ME as well.<ref name="dn2024" />
=== Flight instrumentation ===
There are two configurations of the flight instrumentation for Z-10, one developed from a similar foreign system (rumored to be French), and the other one indigenously-developed, and both configurations share the same holographic [[head-up display|heads-up display]]. The difference in layout between the two configurations is that in one configuration, there are three color [[liquid crystal display|LCD]] [[multi-function display]]s (MFD), while in the other, these are replaced by two larger LCD MFDs. It's not clear which one originated from the foreign system and which is indigenously developed, but it's reported that the practice of having different configurations, thanks to the modular design, is for export purposes, to fit the potential customer countries’ pilots’ habits. However, in early 2018, it was revealed that the 2-piece MFD version was the one selected to enter service.<ref name=wzzsj10ybp>{{cite web |url=https://item.btime.com/m_991adededa64affe8 |title=见过武直-10座舱内部吗?曝光一下超乎你的想象啊! |access-date=February 3, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190115182306/https://item.btime.com/m_991adededa64affe8 |archive-date=January 15, 2019 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }}</ref>


===Avionics===
==Design==
=== Overview ===
[[File:WZ-10 at Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution.jpg|thumb|Z-10 at the Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution]]
[[File:WZ-10 at Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution.jpg|thumb|Z-10 at the Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution]]
The Z-10 features a [[tandem cockpit]] compartment at the front section.<ref name="sina_1604" /> The airframe bulges below the cockpit, extending backward and merging with the stub wings and tail boom, creating a distinctive ridge dividing the top and bottom half of the blended fuselage, which are both canted inward, creating a [[hexagon]]-shaped frontal profile.<ref name="pd_12"/><ref name="eet">{{cite web|url=https://www.eet-china.com/mp/a164223.html |title=晴空霹雳,东方烈火:武直-10 |website=EET China |date=27 December 2022 }}</ref> This slim, [[Rhombus|rhombic]] configuration ensures structural strength, increases internal volumes for equipment, and reduces the frontal projected area and overall [[radar cross section]] (RCS).<ref name="eet"/><ref name="cyd">{{cite web|url=https://zqb.cyol.com/html/2018-10/25/nw.D110000zgqnb_20181025_3-05.htm |title=揭秘直-10武装直升机 |website=China Youth Daily |date=25 October 2018 }}</ref> The [[radar-absorbent material]] is applied to the fuselage, further reducing the radar reflection and providing a certain degree of [[stealth helicopter|low observability]].<ref name="sina_1604" />
[[File:Z-10K releasing flares at CCAS2023 (20230724125905).jpg|thumb|[[PLAAF]] Z-10K release countermeasures]]


The rotor system consists of a single [[Helicopter_rotor#Semirigid|semirigid]] five-blade main rotor at the top and a four-blade tail rotor at the aft section.<ref name="sina_1604" /><ref name="eet"/> The [[airfoil]] of the primary 95KT rotor blade<ref name="sina_1604" /> features a significant [[Camber (aerodynamics)|camber]] with swept tips, designed to reduce the blade length, vibration, and acoustic signature. The tail rotor consists of two sets of dual composite blades (four blades in total) mounted in an angled, non-orthogonal (scissor) arrangement<ref>{{cite web|url=http://mil.news.sina.com.cn/jssd/2018-05-15/doc-ihapkuvm0957342.shtml |title=我军直19采用低噪声尾桨为何直10不用 推力减少10% |website=Sina News |date=25 August 2017 }}</ref> designed to reduce noise generated by the [[wingtip vortices]]. All blades are made with carbon fiber-wrapped [[Spar (aeronautics)|spars]] with layered honeycomb composite for the [[Skin (aeronautics)|skin]], capable of sustaining damage against {{cvt|12.7|mm|in}} rounds.<ref name="sina_1604" /><ref name="eet"/> The deicing device is fitted to the blades to increase flight safety in adverse weather.<ref name="eet"/>
The primary sensor suite of Z-10 is the WXG1006 eclectic optical package located at the nose section. The package contains a forward-looking infrared sensor, a TV camera, a laser rangefinder, and a laser designator.<ref>https://www.twz.com/35628/chinese-z-10a-attack-helicopter-shows-off-new-missile-during-live-fire-exercise</ref> The 218th Factory of [[Norinco|China North Industries Group Corp]]


The fuselage is primarily made of [[aluminum alloy]], with 30 percent of the mass being [[composite materials]].<ref name="maiden"/><ref name="sina_1604" /> The cockpit compartment is wrapped inside [[carbon fibers]], while the canopy is protected by bulletproof glasses of {{cvt|38|mm|in}} in thickness.<ref name="sina_1604" /> Additional protection layers made of aluminum alloy and [[kevlar]] are applied to the bottom of the cockpit, side of the engine bays, and around the [[self-sealing fuel tank]].<ref name="eet"/> The [[honeycomb structure|honeycomb]] composite layer is applied to the fuselage bottom, while the pilot seats, landing gears, and fuel tank are reinforced for improved [[crashworthiness]].<ref name="eet"/><ref name="cyd"/> The early model of Z-10 prioritizes protection in critical areas for weight reduction without sacrificing structural integrity, range, and payload. In later serial production, [[graphene]] armor plates are mounted on the side of the cockpit and engine housing to further improve the protection level.<ref name="eet"/><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.janes.com/article/83756/image-shows-china-s-z-10-attack-helicopter-featuring-additional-armour | title=Image shows China's Z-10 attack helicopter featuring additional armour |website=Janes |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181012152926/https://www.janes.com/article/83756/image-shows-china-s-z-10-attack-helicopter-featuring-additional-armour | archive-date=12 October 2018 }}</ref><ref name="wzzsj10c"/>
One of the two primary fire control systems (FCS) is the [[electro-optics|electro-optical]] system, which utilizes experience gained from earlier manufacturing of similar French and Israeli systems, combining the best of the two, but only hardware wise. The software is completely indigenously developed by China. The optronics FCS is manufactured by the, later reformed as China North Industries Group Corporation Electro-Opticals Science & Technology Ltd. ([https://web.archive.org/web/20081208014033/http://www.zbgd.net.cn/zh/index.html 中兵光电科技股份有限公司].)


The Z-10's engine air intake is protected by a metal mesh to prevent foreign objects from being sucked in.<ref name="sina_1604" /> Newer variants can be installed with integrated inlet particle separators (IPS) for engine intake filtration, preventing harmful solid particulates such as sand and dust to damage the critical propulsion components.<ref name="janes_2018_z10me"/> The Z-10's engine system is fitted with the Hover Infrared Suppression System (HIRSS), mixing in the engine exhaust with cold air to reduce the helicopter's infrared characteristic.<ref name="eet"/> Later serial production of Z-10 modified the engine nozzle from sideway-facing to the upward-facing direction, further reducing the signature from [[heat radiation]].<ref name="janes_201209"/><ref name="janes_2018_z10me"/><ref name="ain_181113" /> The upward-facing exhaust nozzle, albeit beneficial for suppressing the infrared signature, would lead to additional drag, To resolve this, the engine on the Z-10 was upgraded to from {{cvt|1300|shp|kW}} to {{cvt|1600|shp|kW}} to make up the loss.<ref name="aw_240221">{{cite web|url=https://aviationweek.com/shownews/singapore-airshow/video-international-debut-chinas-z-10me-singapore-airshow-2024 |title=Video: International Debut For China's Z-10ME At Singapore Airshow 2024 |website=Aviation Week |date=21 February 2024 |first=Steve |last=Trimble |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240221151655/https://aviationweek.com/shownews/singapore-airshow/video-international-debut-chinas-z-10me-singapore-airshow-2024 |archive-date=21 February 2024}}</ref>
The pilot of the Z-10 wears a [[helmet-mounted sight]] (HMS) designed by the 613th Research Institute. The HMS is standard for the Z-10. The HMS is based on the earlier HMS used on the [[Harbin Z-9|Z-9W]], which was first shown at the 5th [[Zhuhai Airshow]] held in 2004. At the 7th Zhuhai Airshow held in 2008, the developer confirmed that the HMS is fully integrated into the FCS and the onboard navigational systems.<ref name=wzzsj10tkmzj/>


===Propulsion===
Navigational information can be displayed on the MFD, pilots can also fly the Z-10 in a 'hands-on' manner, including at night using HMS-compatible [[Night vision device|night vision goggles (NVG)]] similar to the French TopOwl HMS used on the [[Eurocopter Tiger]]. The Chinese HMS can control both air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, other unguided weapons, as well as providing navigational info.<ref name=wzzsj10tkmzj>{{cite web |url=https://new.qq.com/omn/20180424/20180424A0KLEJ.html |title=直10飞行员第二代头盔显示器曝光 |access-date=January 15, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190115182339/https://new.qq.com/omn/20180424/20180424A0KLEJ.html |archive-date=January 15, 2019 |url-status=live |df=mdy-all }}</ref>
[[File:Changhe Z-10.jpg|thumb|Changhe Z-10]]
The Z-10 prototype was powered by two [[Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6|Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6C-67C]] [[turboshaft]] engines,<ref name="wzzsj10a" /> which is equipped with [[Full Authority Digital Engine Control]] (FADEC) system and sports a maximum continuous power of {{cvt|1142|kW|shp}}.<ref name="at_z10">{{cite web|url=https://www.army-technology.com/projects/z-10-attack-helicopter-china-liberation-army/ |title=Z-10 Attack Helicopter, China |website=Z-10 Attack Helicopter, China |date=7 January 2013 }}</ref> The early batches of Z-10 was powered by domestic [[AVIC WZ-9|Zhuzhou WZ-9]] or WZ-9A turboshaft engine, providing {{cvt|957-1000|kW|shp}} of power.<ref name="eet"/><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sohu.com/a/710560203_121738231 |title=武直10要"换心"了:爬升率提升20%,加速性能提高10% |website=Sohu |date=10 August 2023 }}</ref> The reduced performance of WZ-9 turboshaft engines prevented Z-10 to carry its maximum payload of 16 anti-tank guided missiles.<ref name="td_200226" />


Multiple engines were developed to upgrade the propulsion of the Z-10. China and European partners reportedly developed WZ-16.<ref name="eet"/><ref name="td_200226" /> WZ-9 was upgraded to WZ-9C with {{cvt|1200|kW|shp}} of maximum power.<ref name="janes_231108" /> The engine was originally designed for export, but subsequently used to upgrade early Z-10s batches.<ref name=wzzsj10c/> The WZ-9C provides 30% more power than the original version,<ref name="ain_181113"/> providing the Z-10 with enough lift for a variety of payloads.<ref name="janes_231108" />
Additionally, [[helmet mounted display]]s (HMDs) were developed for the Z-10, similar to the [[Honeywell]] M142 Integrated Helmet and Display Sighting System (IHADSS) used on the [[AH-64 Apache]]. The developer confirmed that the HMD is not standard as it is incompatible with the NVGs, the two cannot be simultaneously equipped. It is unclear whether the NVG is standard; however, the developer has claimed that the helmet and HMS are fully compatible with NVGs.{{Citation needed|date=March 2014}} Images released by official government sources have shown that the Z-10 uses binocular-form NVGs (as well as other helicopters in Chinese service).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pic.mil.sohu.com/group-409686.shtml#0|title=直-10飞行员新型头盔罕见亮相-军事频道图片库-大视野-搜狐|access-date=4 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150204181241/http://pic.mil.sohu.com/group-409686.shtml|archive-date=4 February 2015|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref name=wzzsj10tkmzj/>


The Z-10 emphasizes extended-range operation. The WZ-9A turboshaft engine allows the aircraft to fly at a maximum speed of {{cvt|290|km/h|knot}} and cruise speed of {{cvt|230|km/h|knot}}. The internal tank supports a range of {{cvt|800|km|nmi mi}}.<ref name="eet"/>
In late 2018, the 2nd generation Chinese HMS designed for the Z-10 was revealed, where a large single eye piece had replaced the two-piece binocular ones in the 1st generation HMS.<ref name=wzzsj10tkmzj/>


===Cockpit===
===Avionics===
[[File:Z-10K releasing flares at CCAS2023 (20230724125905).jpg|thumb|[[PLAAF]] Z-10K releasing countermeasures]]
The stepped [[tandem]] [[cockpit]] houses two aviators – the gunner in the back and the pilot in the front – different from the conventional layout of most attack helicopters, confirmed by Chinese official news agency's video report.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ygZPrXq8qk "WZ-10 helicopter training video report, details revealed."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160112162746/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ygZPrXq8qk |date=2016-01-12 }} ''CNTV'', 10 Feb 2013.</ref>
[[File:WZ-10.jpg|thumb|A Changhe Z-10 showing four underwing hardpoints. Defensive sensors such as MAWS, LWR, and RWR are visible on the nose section and wing edges.]]
====Countermeasures====
The Z-10 features a comprehensive self-defense suite. The YH-96 electronic warfare system includes a set of infrared [[missile approach warning system]] (MAWS),<ref name="cyd"/> [[radar warning receivers]] (RWR) and [[laser warning receivers]] (LWR), both are connected with the 6×4 countermeasure dispensers (two on each side, four in total<ref name="janes_2018_z10me"/>) to release [[Flare (countermeasure)|flare]] and [[Chaff (countermeasure)|chaff]] when incoming missiles are detected.<ref name="eet"/> The system was upgraded on later variants with a different avionics layout,<ref name="sohu_me"/> replacing previously mounted radar and electro-optical sensors with integrated countermeasure suite, indicated by several [[active electronically scanned array]] (AESA) radar panels around the fuselage and two electro-optical suites mounted on the stub wings.<ref name="tkp_me0102"/> The radar panels are capable of passive signal detection, target searching, and active jamming, which also replace the function of missile approach warning system.<ref name="tkp_me0102"/><ref name="janes_2018_z10me"/><ref name="ain_181113" /> The electro-optical suites include new laser,<ref name="scmp_240221">{{cite web|url=https://www.scmp.com/news/china/military/article/3252744/china-debuts-latest-z-10me-attack-helicopter-singapore-air-show |title=China debuts latest Z-10ME attack helicopter at Singapore Airshow |website=South China Morning Post |date=21 February 2024 |first1=Hayley |last1=Wongin |first2=Seong Hyeon |last2=Choi }}</ref> infrared, ultraviolet warning receivers,<ref name="z10me_2024"/><ref name="tkp_me0102"/> and [[Directional Infrared Counter Measures|directional infrared countermeasure systems]] (DIRCM) to defend against [[infrared homing]] (IR) missiles.<ref name="dn2024"/>


==== Targeting ====
The canopy of the cockpit is specially treated to prevent glare from the sun, and, as an additional option, a tanned version is also available for camouflage purposes, though this is not standard. The bullet-proof glass of the canopy may be as thick as 38 millimeters, and is able to withstand direct hits from shrapnel and rounds fired from machine guns up to .50 caliber size. Additional armor plates can be fitted for improved protection.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.janes.com/article/83756/image-shows-china-s-z-10-attack-helicopter-featuring-additional-armour | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181011205203/https://www.janes.com/article/83756/image-shows-china-s-z-10-attack-helicopter-featuring-additional-armour | archive-date=2018-10-11 | title=Janes &#124; Latest defence and security news }}</ref>
The primary sensor suite of Z-10 is the WXG1006 [[Electro-optics|electro-optical]] (EO) package located at the nose section. The ball-shaped package contains a forward-looking infrared sensor, a TV camera, a laser rangefinder, and a laser designator.<ref name="twz_200811">{{cite web|url=https://www.twz.com/35628/chinese-z-10a-attack-helicopter-shows-off-new-missile-during-live-fire-exercise |title=Chinese Z-10A Attack Helicopter Shows Off New Missile During Live-Fire Exercise |website=The War Zone |date=11 August 2020 |first=Thomas |last=Newdick }}</ref> The development of the primary [[electro-optics|electro-optical]] fire control systems (FCS) was influenced by French and Israeli systems but with locally programmed software.<ref name="sina_1604" /> The YH millimeter-wave radar was also developed for Z-10 to detect longer-range targets, and targets behind flog, smoke, and dust.<ref name="eet"/><ref name="edr2024" /> The mmWave radar can be installed on top of the main rotor mast.<ref name="edr2024" />


==== Cockpit and instrumentation ====
===Propulsion===
The stepped [[tandem]] [[cockpit]] houses two pilots. The front pilot primarily controls the flight maneuver, while the back pilot handles the weapon system.<ref name="sina_1309">{{cite web|url=https://mil.news.sina.com.cn/2013-09-06/1056739221.html |title=武直10飞行头盔堪比欧洲虎式 飞行时不用看仪表 |website=Sina News |date=6 September 2013 }}</ref><ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ygZPrXq8qk "WZ-10 helicopter training video report, details revealed."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160112162746/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ygZPrXq8qk |date=2016-01-12 }} ''CNTV'', 10 Feb 2013.</ref> Both pilots have identical flight instrumentation,<ref name="sina_1309" /> serving as backups to each other, and both are capable of flight control and weapons operation.<ref name="cyd"/> Inside the cockpit is the digital flight instrument,<ref name="eet"/><ref name="cyd"/> with the [[fly-by-wire]] Hands-On Collective And Stick (HOCAS) flight control.<ref name="sina_1604" /> Each pilot has two [[liquid crystal display|LCD]] [[multi-function display]]s (MFD) and multiple small displays for other information.<ref name="eet"/><ref name="cyd"/><ref name=wzzsj10ybp>{{cite web |url=https://item.btime.com/m_991adededa64affe8 |title=见过武直-10座舱内部吗?曝光一下超乎你的想象啊! |access-date=February 3, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190115182306/https://item.btime.com/m_991adededa64affe8 |archive-date=January 15, 2019 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }}</ref> An additional holographic [[heads-up display]] (HUD) is provided for the front pilot.<ref name="sina_1604" />
[[File:Changhe Z-10.jpg|thumb|Changhe Z-10]]
The Z-10 prototype was powered by two [[Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6|Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6C-67C]] [[turboshaft]] engines,<ref name="wzzsj10a" /> which is equipped with [[Full Authority Digital Engine Control]] (FADEC) system and sports a maximum continuous power of {{cvt|1142|kW|shp}}.<ref name="at_z10">{{cite web|url=https://www.army-technology.com/projects/z-10-attack-helicopter-china-liberation-army/ |title=Z-10 Attack Helicopter, China |website=Z-10 Attack Helicopter, China |date=7 January 2013 }}</ref> The early batches of Z-10 was powered by domestic [[AVIC WZ-9|Zhuzhou WZ-9]] turboshaft engine, providing {{cvt|957|kW|shp}} of power.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sohu.com/a/710560203_121738231 |title=武直10要“换心”了:爬升率提升20%,加速性能提高10% |website=Sohu |date=10 August 2023 }}</ref> The reduced performance of WZ-9 turboshaft engines prevented Z-10 to carry its maximum payload of 16 anti-tank guided missiles.<ref name="td_200226" />


Each pilot also wears a [[helmet-mounted sight]] (HMS), similar to the Integrated Helmet and Display Sighting System (IHADSS) on the [[AH-64 Apache]].<ref name="sina_1604" /> The helmet sight is fully integrated with FCS to control guided and unguided munitions and display onboard navigation information.<ref name=wzzsj10tkmzj/> The pilots can [[Master–slave (technology)|slave]] the sensor suite and {{cvt|23|mm|in}} autocannon to their helmets, controlling the sensors and autocannon direction by turning their heads.<ref name="eet"/> For all-weather operation, the helmet visor can be attached with a binocular-like [[Night vision device|night vision goggles]] (NVG),<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pic.mil.sohu.com/group-409686.shtml#0|title=直-10飞行员新型头盔罕见亮相-军事频道图片库-大视野-搜狐|access-date=4 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150204181241/http://pic.mil.sohu.com/group-409686.shtml|archive-date=4 February 2015|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref><ref name=wzzsj10tkmzj/> which was later replaced with integrated NVGs that can display night-vision image directly inside the visor.<ref name="sina_1309"/><ref name=wzzsj10tkmzj>{{cite web |url=https://new.qq.com/omn/20180424/20180424A0KLEJ.html |title=直10飞行员第二代头盔显示器曝光 |access-date=January 15, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190115182339/https://new.qq.com/omn/20180424/20180424A0KLEJ.html |archive-date=January 15, 2019 |url-status=live |df=mdy-all }}</ref>
Multiple engines were developed to upgrade the propulsion of the Z-10. China and European partners reportedly developed WZ-16.<ref name="td_200226" /> WZ-9 was upgraded to WZ-9C with {{cvt|1000-1100|kW|shp}} of maximum power. The engine was originally designed for export, but subsequently used to upgrade early Z-10s batches.<ref name=wzzsj10c/> In 2018, the WZ-9G engine developed {{cvt|1200|kW|shp}} maximum power, providing the Z-10 with enough lift for a variety of payload.<ref name="janes_2018_z10me" />


Other navigation instruments of Z-10 include [[Ring laser gyroscope|laser gyrocompass]], [[radio altimeter]], [[Doppler radar]], [[inertial navigation]], [[satellite navigation]], and [[identification friend or foe]] (IFF) systems.<ref name="cyd"/><ref name="AirForceWorld">{{cite web |url=http://www.airforceworld.com/pla/english/wz-10-attack-helicopter-china.html |title=WZ-10 Attack Helicopter China |work=AirForceWorld.com |access-date=2 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304042655/http://www.airforceworld.com/pla/english/wz-10-attack-helicopter-china.html |archive-date=4 March 2016 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }}</ref>
===Weaponry===
Due to its modular design concept, the Z-10 can be armed with a wide variety of weaponry. The adaptation of the Chinese GJV289A standard, the Chinese equivalent of the [[MIL-STD-1553]]B databus architecture, enables weaponry of both Soviet and Western origin to be adopted by the Z-10. Offensive weaponry consists of machine guns, cannons, rockets, and missiles. The stub wings have two [[hardpoint]]s each for a total of four, each [[hardpoint]] being able to carry up to 4 missiles, for a total of up to 16.


===Armaments and payload===
Internal armament consists of a gun mount installed on the chin of the aircraft. Two stub wings provide attachment points for external ordnance or gun pods.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sinodefence.com/airforce/helicopter/wz10.asp|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20060424031842/http://www.sinodefence.com/airforce/helicopter/wz10.asp|url-status=dead|title=Sinodefence.com|archivedate=April 24, 2006|website=www.sinodefence.com}}</ref> The guns are mounted either in the chain gun form, or in the turret. All guns on the Z-10 can be used either against ground targets or aerial targets and can be directly aimed by pilots’ HMS.
[[File:Changhe Z-10 helicopter armament.jpg|thumb|An upgraded Z-10 variant with 19-tube rocket pod and guided missiles mounted, flanked by various armaments at Zhuhai Airshow 2024]]
[[File:(SGP-Singapore) Aviation Industry Corporation of China Changhe Z10-ME Z10ME-02 @ Singapore Airshow 2024-02-25.jpg|thumb|Z-10ME with avionics and armaments displayed at Singapore Airshow 2024]]
The Z-10 has a modular weapon system. The system uses the GJV289A standard, the Chinese equivalent of the [[MIL-STD-1553]]B databus architecture, which enables weaponry of Chinese, Soviet, and Western origin to be adopted by the Z-10.<ref name="sina_1604" /> Offensive weaponry consists of machine guns, cannons, rockets, and missiles. Internal armament consists of a gun mount installed on the chin of the aircraft with 180° of horizontal traverse.<ref name="eet"/> Two stub wings provide attachment points for external ordnance or gun pods.<ref name="cyd"/><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.sinodefence.com/airforce/helicopter/wz10.asp|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20060424031842/http://www.sinodefence.com/airforce/helicopter/wz10.asp|url-status=dead|title=Sinodefence.com|archivedate=April 24, 2006|website=www.sinodefence.com}}</ref> Each stub wings have two [[hardpoint]]s,<ref name="cyd"/> for a total of four, and each [[hardpoint]] can carry up to 4 missiles, for a total of 16 missiles.<ref name="td_200226"/>


The Z-10 is equipped with a {{cvt|23|mm|in}} PX-10A automatic chain gun developed by China.<ref>{{Cite web|last=新浪军事|date=2016-05-28|title=深度:武直10先进航炮竟缘自二战苏联高射机枪?|url=http://mil.news.sina.com.cn/jssd/2016-05-28/doc-ifxsqxxs7820141.shtml|access-date=2021-01-12|website=mil.news.sina.com.cn}}</ref>
The autocannon on the serial production Z-10 is the {{cvt|23|mm|in}} PX-10A automatic chain gun,<ref name="eet"/><ref>{{Cite web|last=新浪军事|date=2016-05-28|title=深度:武直10先进航炮竟缘自二战苏联高射机枪?|url=http://mil.news.sina.com.cn/jssd/2016-05-28/doc-ifxsqxxs7820141.shtml|access-date=2021-01-12|website=mil.news.sina.com.cn}}</ref><ref name="janes_231108"/> but the aircraft can also mount {{cvt|20|mm|in}},<ref name="ain_181113"/> {{cvt|25|mm|in}},<ref name="sina_1604" /> and {{cvt|30|mm|in}} autocannons,<ref name="sina_1604" /><ref name="cyd"/><ref name="td_200226"/> with some of them marketed for export customers.


The [[air-to-surface missile]]s deployed by the Z-10 include [[HJ-8]], [[HJ-9]], [[HJ-10]],<ref name="sina_1604" /> AKD-9, and AKD-10 anti-tank missiles.<ref name="twz_200811"/> Early AKD-10 utilizes semi-active laser (SAL) guidance, while later variants reportedly incorporate [[millimeter wave]] (MMW) seekers.<ref name="twz_200811"/> The Z-10 can also fire BA-21 long-range anti-tank missiles with a millimeter wave/semi-active laser dual model guidance seeker.<ref name="twz_200811"/> The missile can be fired from Z-10 and data-linked by millimeter-wave radar mounted on friendly platforms.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/more-details-emerge-about-new-chinese-helicopter-launched-atgm |title=More details emerge about new Chinese helicopter-launched ATGM |website=Janes |date=7 August 2020 |first=Andreas |last=Rupprecht |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240614134318/https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/more-details-emerge-about-new-chinese-helicopter-launched-atgm |archive-date=14 June 2024 }}</ref> Aside from anti-tank missiles, the Z-10 can also carry SW6 air-launched drones,<ref name="ain_181113"/> [[CM-501G]]A none-line-of-sight air-to-surface missiles<ref name="key_1612"/> CM-502KG anti-tank missiles,<ref name="cm502"/><ref name="aw_240221"/> CM-501XA loitering munitions,<ref name="ain_181113"/> ET60 {{cvt|324|mm|in}} lightweight torpedo, with the last one providing Z-10 with useful, albeit limited, naval warfare capabilities.<ref name="ain_181113"/> The helicopter is compatible with [[GB PGB|GB25]] and [[GB PGB|GB50]] guided bombs.<ref name="z10me_2024"/>
[[File:WZ-10.jpg|thumb|A Changhe Z-10 showing four underwing hardpoints]]


The main [[air-to-air missile]] deployed by the Z-10 is the [[TY-90]],<ref name="twz_200811"/><ref name="dn2024"/> a missile specifically designed for use by helicopters in aerial combat.<ref name="eet"/> The TY-90 is much heavier than the [[MANPAD]] missiles usually carried by helicopters, providing better lethality and range.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://en.missilery.info/missile/ty-90 |title=TY-90 |website=missilery}}</ref>
The [[air-to-surface missile]]s deployed by the Z-10 include the domestic [[HJ-8]] and AKD-10 anti-tank missiles. The AKD-10 is similar in capability to the [[AGM-114 Hellfire]] and it has an anti-helicopter capability in addition to an anti-tank capability.<ref name="AirForceWorld">{{cite web |url=http://www.airforceworld.com/pla/english/wz-10-attack-helicopter-china.html |title=WZ-10 Attack Helicopter China |work=AirForceWorld.com |access-date=2 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304042655/http://www.airforceworld.com/pla/english/wz-10-attack-helicopter-china.html |archive-date=4 March 2016 |url-status=dead |df=dmy-all }}</ref> The Z-10 can also fire BA-21 long-range anti-tank missiles, which can be fired from 11 miles away, and homing onto target with the data-linked millimeter wave radar.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/35628/chinese-z-10a-attack-helicopter-shows-off-new-missile-during-live-fire-exercise |title=Chinese Z-10A Attack Helicopter Shows Off New Missile During Live-Fire Exercise |website=The Drive |date=11 August 2020| first=Thomas |last=Newdick}}</ref>


The Z-10 can launch a great variety of unguided and guided rockets. Under the stub wings, a total of four rocket pods can be mounted on the [[hardpoints]]. Options include the 19-tube {{cvt|57|mm|3}} rocket pod,<ref name="thinkhk_z10">{{cite web|url=https://www.thinkhk.com/article/2023-07/25/60989.html |title=甘若水:「霹靂火」配「火蛇」制導火箭彈精確獵殺 |website=Think Hong Kong |date=25 July 2023 }}</ref> 7-tube {{cvt|70|mm|3}} Fire Snake rocket pod<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.163.com/dy/article/I7N6KLHM051597CR.html |title=小飞棍来咯!直10装备"火蛇"新型制导火箭,多出14枚小导弹 |website=NatEase News |date=20 June 2023 }}</ref><ref name="janes_231108" /> with FS70A (GR-5) {{cvt|70|mm|3}} guided rocket<ref name="thinkhk_z10" /><ref name="dn2024" /> or FS70B {{cvt|70|mm|3}} air burst fragmentation rocket,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://aviationweek.com/shownews/singapore-airshow/singapore-hosts-foreign-debut-chinas-latest-attack-helicopter |title=Singapore Hosts Foreign Debut For China's Latest Attack Helicopter |website=Aviation Week |date=18 February 2024 |first=Steve |last=Trimble }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://aviationweek.com/shownews/singapore-airshow/video-international-debut-chinas-z-10me-singapore-airshow-2024 |title=Video: International Debut For China's Z-10ME At Singapore Airshow 2024 |website=Aviation Week |date=21 February 2024 |first=Steve |last=Trimble }}</ref> or 19-tube {{cvt|70|mm|3}} unguided rocket pod with anti-infantry fragmentation rockets.<ref name="janes_231108" /> 7-tube {{cvt|90|mm|3}} rocket pod is also available,<ref name="thinkhk_z10" /><ref>{{cite web|url=https://dw-media.tkww.hk/epaper/tkp/20230710/A11_Screen.pdf |title=直10火蛇奪島 攻碉堡獵戰車 |website=[[Ta Kung Pao]] |date=9 July 2023 |author=馬浩亮 }}</ref> capable of firing the larger FS90A {{cvt|90|mm|3}} guided rocket<ref name="thinkhk_z10" /> or [[TG PGB#TJ series|''Tianjian'']] {{cvt|90|mm|3}} rocket.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.news.cn/mil/2023-06/21/c_1212236367.htm |title=制导火箭弹:直-10武装直升机的新"点穴利器" |website=Xinhua |date=21 June 2023 }}</ref> Aside from the common calibers, the helicopter can support rockets from {{cvt|20|mm|3}} to {{cvt|130|mm|3}}.<ref name="sina_1604" />
The main [[air-to-air missile]] deployed by the Z-10 is the [[TY-90]], a missile specifically designed for use by helicopters in aerial combat. The TY-90 is much heavier than the [[MANPAD]] missiles usually carried by helicopters, providing better lethality and range.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://en.missilery.info/missile/ty-90 |title=TY-90 |website=missilery}}</ref> The Chinese [[FN-6]] and [[QW-1 Vanguard|QW series]] missiles can also be deployed, as with other non-Chinese MANPADs. TY-90 and MANPADs are often carried in missile racks, with a total of 4 missiles carried per hardpoint.


For other types of payloads, the Z-10 can carry a KG300G self-defense [[electronic warfare]] (EW) pod, providing organic survivability for frontline [[ELINT]] and [[Electronic warfare support measures|ESM]] defense.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://theaviationist.com/2024/08/03/chinas-z-10-ew-pod/ |title=China's Z-10 Attack Helicopter Seen Carrying Electronic Warfare Pod For The First Time |website= The Aviationist |date=3 August 2024 |first=Parth |last=Satam }}</ref> The EW pod features a stealth enclosure, and is capable of providing multi-target jamming, spectrum searching, and [[digital radio frequency memory]] (DRFM) signal processing.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/defence/chinese-z-10-operates-with-new-electronic-warfare-pod |title=Chinese Z-10 operates with new electronic warfare pod |website=Janes |date=7 August 2024 |first=Akhil |last=Kadidal }}</ref> External fuel tanks be attached to further its operational and ferry ranges.<ref name="twz_220510">{{cite web|url=https://www.twz.com/chinese-z-10-attack-helicopter-flew-into-taiwans-air-defense-zone-for-first-time |title=Chinese Z-10 Attack Helicopter Flew Into Taiwan's Air Defense Zone For First Time (Updated) |website=The War Zone |date=10 May 2022 |first=Thomas |last=Newdick }}</ref> The helicopter can also underslung [[all-terrain vehicles]] (ATV) for special operation insertion support.<ref name="ain_181113"/> The Z-10 can underslung around 3 tonnes.<ref name="ain_181113" />
When using larger air-to-air missiles such as the [[PL-9]] or similar missiles such as [[AIM-9 Sidewinder]], the total number is reduced to 2. The Z-10 fired its first air-to-air missile in mid-August 2013 during a live-fire drill and successfully intercepted low-altitude targets.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.deagel.com/news/Chinese-WZ-10-Attack-Helicopter-Launches-First-Air-to-Air-Missile_n000011837.aspx |title=Chinese WZ-10 Attack Helicopter Launches First Air-to-Air Missile |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130901080631/http://www.deagel.com/news/Chinese-WZ-10-Attack-Helicopter-Launches-First-Air-to-Air-Missile_n000011837.aspx |archive-date=2013-09-01 |website=Deagel |date=26 August 2013}}</ref>


==Operational history==
The Z-10 can be armed with a wide variety of unguided rockets, ranging from 20&nbsp;mm to 130&nbsp;mm caliber. The largest rockets tested were a type of 130&nbsp;mm rocket that were carried on the [[hardpoint]]s just as missiles are carried, while smaller caliber rockets were mounted in conventional rocket pods. The most frequently used rockets are those ranging from 57&nbsp;mm to 90&nbsp;mm and a total of 4 pods can be carried under the stub wings, one under each [[hardpoint]]. A family of guided 90&nbsp;mm rockets produced by a subsidiary of [[Norinco]],<ref>[http://www.cngc.com.cn/cn/memberdetail.aspx?id=35 HJG] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131230235042/http://www.cngc.com.cn/cn/memberdetail.aspx?id=35 |date=December 30, 2013 }}</ref> the [https://web.archive.org/web/20131231000723/http://hebjch.cn.gongchang.com/ Harbin Jiancheng Group (哈尔滨建成集团有限公司)], was first revealed in the 9th [[Zhuhai Airshow]] held in November 2012, designated as [[Chinese UAV employed missiles#Sky Arrow 90|Sky Arrow 90]] (Tianjian 90 or Tian Jian 90, {{zh|c=天箭|links=no}} 90).
===Deployment===
In 2011, the Z-10 can be observed operating at PLAGF bases.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.zaobao.com/wencui/2011/01/hongkong110130b.shtml |title=中国解放军已列装「武直10」(联合早报) |access-date=2011-02-13 |archive-date=2012-07-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120723074840/http://www.zaobao.com/wencui/2011/01/hongkong110130b.shtml |url-status=live }}</ref> In September 2016, the PLA announced that all of its [[army aviation]] units had been equipped with the Z-10.<ref>[http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/archive-world-worldwide-news-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-military-defence-industry/global-defense-security-news/global-news-2016/september/2908-wz-10-attack-helicopter-now-deployed-in-all-pla-aviation-units.html WZ-10 attack helicopter now deployed in all PLA aviation units] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220063745/http://www.airrecognition.com/index.php/archive-world-worldwide-news-air-force-aviation-aerospace-air-military-defence-industry/global-defense-security-news/global-news-2016/september/2908-wz-10-attack-helicopter-now-deployed-in-all-pla-aviation-units.html |date=2016-12-20 }} - Airrecognition.com, 8 September 2016</ref> The helicopter is stationed in frontline regions, such as the [[Tibet plateau]],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.china-arms.com/2024/05/z10-helicopters-combat-training/ |title=Z-10 Helicopters Conduct Live-Fire Training on the Tibetan Plateau |website=China Arms |date=26 May 2024 }}</ref> and [[Taiwan Strait]].<ref name="twz_220510"/>


===Export===
==Strategic implications==
The Z-10 was one of the contenders to replace [[Pakistan]]'s [[Bell AH-1 Cobra|Bell AH-1F Cobra]] attack helicopters. In 2015, Pakistan acquired three Z-10s for trials,<ref>{{cite web |last1=Gady |first1=Franz-Stefan |title=Did Pakistan Decide to Buy China's Newest Attack Helicopter? |url=https://thediplomat.com/2016/03/did-pakistan-decide-to-buy-chinas-newest-attack-helicopter/ |website=The Diplomat |date=24 March 2016 |access-date=14 January 2022}}</ref> but they rejected the offer due to the inadequate WZ-9 engine. Pakistan then chose Turkey's AH-1Z; however, contracts to acquire the AH-1Z and then the [[TAI/AgustaWestland T129 ATAK]] (which uses the American [[LHTEC T800|LHTEC CTS800–4A]] engine) fell through because of worsening [[Pakistan–United States relations|relations]] with the [[United States]].<ref name="dip_pak_reconsider">{{cite web |last1=Gady |first1=Franz-Stefan |title=Pakistan Reconsiders Chinese Z-10 Attack Helicopters |url=https://thediplomat.com/2020/02/pakistan-reconsiders-chinese-z-10-attack-helicopters/ |website=The Diplomat |date=28 February 2020 |access-date=14 January 2022}}</ref> In January 2022, negotiations to acquire the Z-10ME were underway;<ref name="janes_pak_2022-01">{{cite web |last1=Herschelman |first1=Kerry |title=Pakistan cancels attack helicopter project with Turkey, opting for China |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/pakistan-cancels-attack-helicopter-project-with-turkey-opting-for-china |website=Janes |date=6 January 2022 |access-date=14 January 2022}}</ref> the Z-10ME had been identified as a fallback option by February 2020.<ref name="dip_pak_reconsider"/> In June 2022, Pakistan's deal with T129 ATAK was reportedly canceled, and the Pakistan government was seeking the acquisition of Z-10ME.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.timesaerospace.aero/features/defence/us-sanctions-deal-double-blow-to-tai-helicopter-sales |title=US sanctions deal double blow to TAI helicopter sales |website=Times Aerospace |date=1 June 2022 }}</ref> Pakistan military reportedly received the first batch of Z-10ME in 2023.<ref name="dn2024" />
In June 2012, the United States charged [[United Technologies Corporation|United Technologies]] and two of its subsidiaries, [[Pratt & Whitney Canada]] and [[Hamilton Sundstrand]], of selling engine control software to China which aided in the development of the Changhe Z-10.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ctpost.com/local/article/UTC-subsidiaries-guilty-for-aiding-China-s-3670550.php#ixzz1zCDcsqDv|title=UTC, subsidiaries guilty for aiding China's military attack helicopter|work=Connecticut Post|date=29 June 2012|access-date=4 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923222649/http://www.ctpost.com/local/article/UTC-subsidiaries-guilty-for-aiding-China-s-3670550.php#ixzz1zCDcsqDv|archive-date=23 September 2015|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref> While the Chinese defense ministry denied that China bought or used the software, Pratt & Whitney Canada and Hamilton Sundstrand agreed to pay more than $75 million to the U.S. government to settle the charges.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-china-usa-helicopter-idUSBRE86P0CK20120726|title=China labels U.S. helicopter allegations fictitious|work=Reuters|date=26 July 2012|access-date=4 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150204174653/http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/07/26/us-china-usa-helicopter-idUSBRE86P0CK20120726|archive-date=4 February 2015|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref>


According to Boneham of [[Janes Information Services]], the advantages of the Z-10ME were its capabilities and affordability, when compared with similar Western platforms. The helicopter is suitable for countries without access to Western and Russian hardware.<ref name="scmp_240221"/> Malcolm Davis of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute believed the Z-10ME offered the capability gap of operating air-launched UAVs, and potential candidates included Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, etc. However, Davis believed the demand for advanced helicopters was quite small in these economies.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.reuters.com/business/aerospace-defense/chinas-z-10-attack-helicopter-makes-foreign-debut-export-outlook-uncertain-2024-02-22/ |title=China's Z-10 attack helicopter makes foreign debut, but export outlook uncertain |website=Reuters |date=22 February 2024 |first=Gerry |last=Doyle }}</ref>
==Orders and exports==

The Z-10 was one of the contenders to replace [[Pakistan]]'s [[Bell AH-1 Cobra|Bell AH-1F Cobra]] attack helicopters. Three Z-10s were acquired for trials in 2015<ref>{{cite web |last1=Gady |first1=Franz-Stefan |title=Did Pakistan Decide to Buy China's Newest Attack Helicopter? |url=https://thediplomat.com/2016/03/did-pakistan-decide-to-buy-chinas-newest-attack-helicopter/ |website=The Diplomat |date=24 March 2016 |access-date=14 January 2022}}</ref> and rejected due to the inadequate WZ-9 engine, Pakistan then chose Turkey's AH-1Z; however, contracts to acquire the AH-1Z and then the [[TAI/AgustaWestland T129 ATAK]] (which uses the American [[LHTEC T800|LHTEC CTS800–4A]] engine) fell through because of worsening [[Pakistan–United States relations|relations]] with the [[United States]].<ref name="dip_pak_reconsider">{{cite web |last1=Gady |first1=Franz-Stefan |title=Pakistan Reconsiders Chinese Z-10 Attack Helicopters |url=https://thediplomat.com/2020/02/pakistan-reconsiders-chinese-z-10-attack-helicopters/ |website=The Diplomat |date=28 February 2020 |access-date=14 January 2022}}</ref> In January 2022, negotiations to acquire the Z-10ME were underway;<ref name="janes_pak_2022-01">{{cite web |last1=Herschelman |first1=Kerry |title=Pakistan cancels attack helicopter project with Turkey, opting for China |url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/pakistan-cancels-attack-helicopter-project-with-turkey-opting-for-china |website=Janes |date=6 January 2022 |access-date=14 January 2022}}</ref> the Z-10ME had been identified as a fallback option by February 2020.<ref name="dip_pak_reconsider"/> In June 2022, Pakistan's deal with T129 ATAK was reportedly canceled, and the Pakistan government was seeking the acquisition of Z-10ME.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.timesaerospace.aero/features/defence/us-sanctions-deal-double-blow-to-tai-helicopter-sales |title=US sanctions deal double blow to TAI helicopter sales |website=Times Aerospace |date=1 June 2022 }}</ref> Pakistan military reportedly received the first batch of Z-10ME in 2023.<ref name="dn2024" />
===Strategic implications===
In June 2012, the United States charged [[United Technologies Corporation|United Technologies]] and two of its subsidiaries, [[Pratt & Whitney Canada]] and [[Hamilton Sundstrand]], of selling engine control software to China which aided in the development of the Changhe Z-10.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ctpost.com/local/article/UTC-subsidiaries-guilty-for-aiding-China-s-3670550.php#ixzz1zCDcsqDv|title=UTC, subsidiaries guilty for aiding China's military attack helicopter|work=Connecticut Post|date=29 June 2012|access-date=4 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923222649/http://www.ctpost.com/local/article/UTC-subsidiaries-guilty-for-aiding-China-s-3670550.php#ixzz1zCDcsqDv|archive-date=23 September 2015|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref> While the Chinese defense ministry denied that China bought or used the software, Pratt & Whitney Canada and Hamilton Sundstrand agreed to pay more than $75 million to the U.S. government to settle the charges.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-china-usa-helicopter-idUSBRE86P0CK20120726|title=China labels U.S. helicopter allegations fictitious|work=Reuters|date=26 July 2012|access-date=4 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150204174653/http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/07/26/us-china-usa-helicopter-idUSBRE86P0CK20120726|archive-date=4 February 2015|url-status=live|df=dmy-all}}</ref>


==Variants==
==Variants==
[[File:Z-10K.jpg|thumb|Z-10K Variant]]
[[File:Z-10K.jpg|thumb|Z-10K Variant]]
[[File:(SGP-Singapore) Aviation Industry Corporation of China Changhe Z10-ME Z10ME-02 @ Singapore Airshow 2024-02-25.jpg|thumb|Z-10ME-02 with avionics and armaments displayed at Singapore Airshow 2024]]
;Z-10 Prototype: Prototype for basic tests. Not all had the same layout in that some had a [[fenestron]] configuration while others had a traditional tail rotor configuration; some had a chin gun turret while others had a [[chain gun]]; some had nose-mounted electro-optical systems while others had mast-mounted electro-optical systems.
;Z-10 Prototype: Prototype for basic tests. Not all had the same layout in that some had a [[fenestron]] configuration while others had a traditional tail rotor configuration; some had a chin gun turret while others had a [[chain gun]]; some had nose-mounted electro-optical systems while others had mast-mounted electro-optical systems.
;Z-10H: Pre-production series powered by [[Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6]]C-76 [[turboshaft]] engine.<ref name="wzzsj10a">{{cite web |title=武直十试飞削减防护甲和雷达减重:发动机动力不足 |url=http://mil.news.sina.com.cn/jssd/2019-01-15/doc-ihqfskcn7188407.shtml?cre=tianyi&mod=pcpager_mil&loc=40&r=9&doct=0&rfunc=100&tj=none&tr=9 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190115182025/http://mil.news.sina.com.cn/jssd/2019-01-15/doc-ihqfskcn7188407.shtml?cre=tianyi&mod=pcpager_mil&loc=40&r=9&doct=0&rfunc=100&tj=none&tr=9 |archive-date=January 15, 2019 |access-date=January 5, 2019 |df=mdy-all}}</ref>
;Z-10H: Pre-production series powered by [[Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6]]C-76 [[turboshaft]] engine.<ref name="wzzsj10a">{{cite web |title=武直十试飞削减防护甲和雷达减重:发动机动力不足 |url=http://mil.news.sina.com.cn/jssd/2019-01-15/doc-ihqfskcn7188407.shtml?cre=tianyi&mod=pcpager_mil&loc=40&r=9&doct=0&rfunc=100&tj=none&tr=9 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190115182025/http://mil.news.sina.com.cn/jssd/2019-01-15/doc-ihqfskcn7188407.shtml?cre=tianyi&mod=pcpager_mil&loc=40&r=9&doct=0&rfunc=100&tj=none&tr=9 |archive-date=January 15, 2019 |access-date=January 5, 2019 |df=mdy-all}}</ref>
;Z-10: Equipped with the domestic Chinese WZ-9 engine, the Standard Z-10 initially launched without external armor panels due to the limitations of the engine. This model established the baseline for the Z-10 series' capabilities.
;Z-10: Equipped with the domestic Chinese WZ-9 engine, the Standard Z-10 initially launched without external armor panels due to the limitations of the engine. This model established the baseline for the Z-10 series' capabilities.
;Z-10K: Z-10K is modified variant derived from the standard Z-10 at the request of the [[People's Liberation Army Air Force Airborne Corps]].
;Z-10 Upgraded Variant: In 2018, older batches began to be upgraded alongside newly manufactured models with more powerful WZ-9C engines, facilitating key upgrades: new data-link enabled missiles, ceramic/graphene armor (on the engine covering and below the cockpit windows), MAWS, IRCM, and upward-facing exhaust nozzles (to lower infrared visibility). It also introduces an advanced IFF system and an enhanced BeiDou navigation system antenna, streamlining its operational capabilities.<ref name="janes_201209">{{cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/more-details-emerge-on-upgraded-z-10-helicopter-variant |title=More details emerge on upgraded Z-10 helicopter variant |website=janes | date=9 December 2020 |first=Andreas |last= Rupprecht}}</ref><ref name="td_200226">{{cite web |last=Gady |first=Franz-Stefan |date=26 February 2020 |title=China Unveils Latest Z-10 Attack Helicopter Variant |url=https://thediplomat.com/2020/02/china-unveils-latest-z-10-attack-helicopter-variant/ |website=The Diplomat}}</ref><ref name="wzzsj10c">{{cite web |title=央视曝光我直10升级型实战训练 发动机功率或增1/3 |url=http://mil.news.sina.com.cn/jssd/2018-12-06/doc-ihmutuec6668319.shtml |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206111905/https://mil.news.sina.com.cn/jssd/2018-12-06/doc-ihmutuec6668319.shtml |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |access-date=December 6, 2018 |df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref name="World Air Forces 2018">{{cite web |year=2018 |title=World Air Forces 2018 |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/asset/21905/waf/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180206123925/https://www.flightglobal.com/asset/21905/waf/ |archive-date=6 February 2018 |access-date=14 August 2018 |publisher=Flightglobal Insight |df=dmy-all}}</ref>
;Z-10 Upgrade: In 2018, older batches began to be upgraded alongside newly manufactured models.<ref name="World Air Forces 2018">{{cite web |year=2018 |title=World Air Forces 2018 |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/asset/21905/waf/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180206123925/https://www.flightglobal.com/asset/21905/waf/ |archive-date=6 February 2018 |access-date=14 August 2018 |publisher=Flightglobal Insight |df=dmy-all}}</ref> The ceramic/graphene composite armor plates (on the engine covering and below the cockpit windows) and a new MAWS, both introduced initially on the Z-10ME, were installed on some of the Z-10. The upward-facing engine nozzle was not installed during the early stage of the upgrade program, possibly waiting for the engine replacement.<ref name="wzzsj10c">{{cite web |title=央视曝光我直10升级型实战训练 发动机功率或增1/3 |url=http://mil.news.sina.com.cn/jssd/2018-12-06/doc-ihmutuec6668319.shtml |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181206111905/https://mil.news.sina.com.cn/jssd/2018-12-06/doc-ihmutuec6668319.shtml |archive-date=December 6, 2018 |access-date=December 6, 2018 |df=mdy-all}}</ref> Subsequently, the fleet was upgraded to more powerful WZ-9C engines, new data-link enabled missiles, IRCM systems, and upward-facing exhaust nozzles (to lower infrared visibility). It also introduces an advanced IFF system and an enhanced BeiDou navigation system antenna, significantly improving Z-10's operational capabilities.<ref name="td_200226">{{cite web |last=Gady |first=Franz-Stefan |date=26 February 2020 |title=China Unveils Latest Z-10 Attack Helicopter Variant |url=https://thediplomat.com/2020/02/china-unveils-latest-z-10-attack-helicopter-variant/ |website=The Diplomat}}</ref><ref name="janes_201209">{{cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/more-details-emerge-on-upgraded-z-10-helicopter-variant |title=More details emerge on upgraded Z-10 helicopter variant |website=janes | date=9 December 2020 |first=Andreas |last= Rupprecht |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201105034639/https://www.janes.com/defence-news/news-detail/more-details-emerge-on-upgraded-z-10-helicopter-variant |archive-date=5 November 2020 }}</ref><ref name="janes_231108"/>
;Z-10K: Z-10K is modified from the standard Z-10 at the request of the [[People's Liberation Army Air Force Airborne Corps]].
;Z-10M: 3 samples built for Pakistan,<ref name=wzzsj10ybp/> powered by the WZ-9C engine with maximum power around 1000-1100 kW. It was not selected by Pakistan after evaluation, but the design was used to upgrade Z-10s built earlier, when a more powerful engine became available.<ref name=wzzsj10c/>
;Z-10 Export Prototypes: 3 samples built for Pakistan,<ref name=wzzsj10ybp/> powered by the early WZ-9 engine with maximum power around {{cvt|930|kW|shp}}. It was not selected by Pakistan after evaluation due to insufficient engine power at the plateau condition.<ref name="sohu_me"/>
;Z-10ME: Upgraded variant first unveiled in 2018 with active and passive countermeasures, missile approach warning system, radar warning receiver, new engine exhaust nozzle pointed upwards to reduce infrared signature, new intake filtration systems, a more powerful WZ-9G 1200 kW engine, larger ammunition magazine, appliqué graphene-based armor panels, infrared jammer, and a new IFF interrogator.<ref name="janes_2018_z10me">{{cite web |last1=Wong |first1=Kevin |title=Airshow China 2018: Upgraded Z-10ME attack helicopter breaks cover |url=https://www.janes.com/article/84433/airshow-china-2018-upgraded-z-10me-attack-helicopter-breaks-cover |website=IHS Jane's 360 |access-date=10 November 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181108211522/https://www.janes.com/article/84433/airshow-china-2018-upgraded-z-10me-attack-helicopter-breaks-cover |archive-date=2018-11-08 |location=Zhuhai |date=8 November 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2018-11-13/chinas-z-10me-showcased-increased-capabilities |title=China's Z-10ME Showcased with Increased Capabilities |access-date=2018-12-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181215223455/https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2018-11-13/chinas-z-10me-showcased-increased-capabilities |archive-date=2018-12-15 |url-status=live }}</ref>
;Z-10ME (2018): "ME" stands for upgrade export variant. The first prototype, designated Z-10ME-01, was unveiled in 2018.<ref name="tkp_me0102"/> The ME-01 prototype was initially fitted with a larger ammunition magazine with tripled ammunition belts, a mesh-like intake filtration system, and a new [[missile approach warning system]] (MAWS).<ref name="tkp_me0102">{{cite web|url=https://www.tkww.hk/a/202402/26/AP65dbdd18e4b0eb64da0a9eeb.html |title=霹靂火飛躍 壓制地面火力 |date=26 February 2024 |website=Ta Kung Pao |author=馬浩亮 }}</ref> In Zhuhai Airshow 2018,<ref name=wzzsj10c/> the Z-10ME-01 was updated with additional equipment,<ref name="tkp_me0102"/> including active and passive countermeasures, [[radar warning receiver]], new engine exhaust nozzle pointed upwards to reduce infrared signature,<ref name="tkp_me0102"/> a more sophisticated intake filtration system, a more powerful WZ-9C<ref name="sohu_me"/> [[turboshaft]] with {{cvt|1200|kW|shp}} power, appliqué graphene-based armor panels,<ref name="tkp_me0102"/> infrared jammer, and a new IFF interrogator.<ref name="janes_2018_z10me">{{cite web |last1=Wong |first1=Kevin |title=Airshow China 2018: Upgraded Z-10ME attack helicopter breaks cover |url=https://www.janes.com/article/84433/airshow-china-2018-upgraded-z-10me-attack-helicopter-breaks-cover |website=IHS Jane's 360 |access-date=10 November 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181108211522/https://www.janes.com/article/84433/airshow-china-2018-upgraded-z-10me-attack-helicopter-breaks-cover |archive-date=2018-11-08 |location=Zhuhai |date=8 November 2018 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="ain_181113">{{Cite web |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2018-11-13/chinas-z-10me-showcased-increased-capabilities |title=China's Z-10ME Showcased with Increased Capabilities |access-date=2018-12-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181215223455/https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/defense/2018-11-13/chinas-z-10me-showcased-increased-capabilities |archive-date=2018-12-15 |url-status=live }}</ref> Z-10ME-01 can install a millimeter wave fire control radar at the top of the rotor masat.<ref name="z10me_2024">{{cite web|url=https://armyrecognition.com/news/aerospace-news/2024/discover-z-10me-chinas-attack-helicopter-presents-for-international-market-at-aad-2024 |title=Discover Z-10ME: China's Attack Helicopter Presents for International Market at AAD 2024. |website=armyrecognition |date=19 September 2024 }}</ref><ref name="defweb_240918">{{cite web|url=https://www.defenceweb.co.za/aerospace/aerospace-aerospace/china-shows-off-z-10me-attack-helicopter-at-aad/ |title=China shows off Z-10ME attack helicopter at AAD |website=Defense Web |date=18 September 2024 }}</ref> The Z-10ME-01 at Zhuhai Airshow 2018 served as the basis for upgrading PLAGF's domestic Z-10 fleet.<ref name=wzzsj10c/><ref name="defweb_240918"/>
;Z-10ME-02: Z-10ME variant showcased in 2024 Singapore Airshow. It's fitted with an over-the-rotor mast-mounted Yu Huo millimeter wave fire control radar,<ref name="edr2024">{{cite web|url=https://www.edrmagazine.eu/first-international-presence-for-china-z-10me-attack-helicopter |title=Singapore Airshow – First international presence for China Z-10ME attack helicopter |website=EDR |date=26 February 2024 |first=Paolo |last=Valpolini }}</ref> a missile approach warning system, and [[Directional Infrared Counter Measures|directional infrared countermeasure systems]] (DIRCM) against [[infrared homing]] (IR) missiles.<ref name="dn2024">{{cite web|url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/asia-pacific/2024/02/20/china-unveils-export-version-of-attack-helicopter/ |title=China unveils export version of attack helicopter |website=Defense News |date=20 February 2024 |first=Leilani |last=Chavez }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://interestingengineering.com/military/first-ever-export-z-10-helicopter-unveiled |title=China has unveiled the export variant of its Changhe Z-10 for the first time |website=Interesting Engineering |date=23 February 2024 |first=Christopher |last=McFadden }}</ref>
;Z-10ME (2021): A configuration of Z-10ME first observed in 2021 as the second prototype named Z-10ME-02.<ref name="tkp_me0102"/> It was showcased internationally in 2024 Singapore Airshow.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/air/singapore-airshow-2024-china-debuts-z-10me-attack-helicopter-for-export-market |title=Singapore Airshow 2024: China debuts Z-10ME attack helicopter for export market |website=Janes |date=22 February 2024 |first=Ridzwan |last=Rahmat }}</ref> The new variant improved low-altitude flight performance<ref name="scmp_240221"/> and has a different avionics layout around the fuselage.<ref name="sohu_me">{{cite web|url=https://www.sohu.com/a/534198405_120399893 |title=直10ME顶个"球",无限接近阿帕奇,和歼10CE一样出口巴基斯坦? |website=Sohu |date=31 March 2022 }}</ref> The new electronics warfare system consists of serveal multi-purpose [[active electronically scanned array]] (AESA) radar panels, capable of passive signal detection, target searching, missile approach warning, and active jamming.<ref name="tkp_me0102"/> It's also fitted with an over-the-rotor mast-mounted Yu Huo millimeter wave fire control radar to detect long-range targets.<ref name="tkp_me0102"/><ref name="edr2024">{{cite web|url=https://www.edrmagazine.eu/first-international-presence-for-china-z-10me-attack-helicopter |title=Singapore Airshow – First international presence for China Z-10ME attack helicopter |website=EDR |date=26 February 2024 |first=Paolo |last=Valpolini }}</ref> Beside radars, the Z-10ME-02 features an integrated [[Electro-optics|electro-optical]] (EO) countermeasure system with new detection sensors (replacing the previous laser/infrared/ultraviolet warning alarms) and new active [[Directional Infrared Counter Measures|directional infrared countermeasure systems]] (DIRCM) to counter against [[infrared homing]] (IR) missiles.<ref name="tkp_me0102"/><ref name="dn2024">{{cite web|url=https://www.defensenews.com/global/asia-pacific/2024/02/20/china-unveils-export-version-of-attack-helicopter/ |title=China unveils export version of attack helicopter |website=Defense News |date=20 February 2024 |first=Leilani |last=Chavez }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://interestingengineering.com/military/first-ever-export-z-10-helicopter-unveiled |title=China has unveiled the export variant of its Changhe Z-10 for the first time |website=Interesting Engineering |date=23 February 2024 |first=Christopher |last=McFadden }}</ref> All radar and EO sensors on Z-10ME-02 are interconnected to provide comprehensive situation awareness and operational flexibility.<ref name="tkp_me0102"/>


==Operators==
==Operators==
[[File:PeacefulMission2018-07.jpg|thumb|PLAGF Z-10 ground crew]]
;{{PRC}}
;{{PRC}}
* [[People's Liberation Army]] — 208 units in service as of 2022.<ref name="IISS_2023">{{Cite book|author=The International Institute for Strategic Studies|title=The Military Balance 2023|date=15 February 2023 |publisher=Routledge |location=London |chapter=6 Asia |isbn=9781003400226 |doi=10.4324/9781003400226 |s2cid=256916955 }}</ref>
* [[People's Liberation Army]] — 208 units in service as of 2022.<ref name="IISS_2023">{{Cite book|author=The International Institute for Strategic Studies|title=The Military Balance 2023|date=15 February 2023 |publisher=Routledge |location=London |chapter=6 Asia |isbn=9781003400226 |doi=10.4324/9781003400226 |s2cid=256916955 }}</ref>
Line 126: Line 131:
** [[People's Liberation Army Air Force Airborne Corps]] — 8 units of Z-10K<ref name="IISS_2023" />
** [[People's Liberation Army Air Force Airborne Corps]] — 8 units of Z-10K<ref name="IISS_2023" />
{{flagicon|Pakistan}} [[Pakistan|Islamic Republic of Pakistan]]
{{flagicon|Pakistan}} [[Pakistan|Islamic Republic of Pakistan]]
* [[Pakistan Army Aviation Corps]] — 40 Z-10ME to be delivered by 2026.
* [[Pakistan Army Aviation Corps]] — First batch of Z-10ME delivered in 2023.<ref name="dn2024" /> 40 Z-10ME to be delivered by 2026.


==Specifications (estimated)==
==Specifications (Z-10)==


{{Aircraft specs
{{Aircraft specs
|ref= jczs<ref name="jczs">{{Cite web |url=http://jczs.news.sina.com.cn/p/2007-04-09/0721438818.html |title=欧美专家称中国武直10可媲美阿帕奇(组图)_新浪军事_新浪网<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2007-04-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071102215356/http://jczs.news.sina.com.cn/p/2007-04-09/0721438818.html |archive-date=2007-11-02 |url-status=live }}</ref>
|ref= Military Digest <ref name="jczs">{{Cite web |url=http://jczs.news.sina.com.cn/p/2007-04-09/0721438818.html |title=欧美专家称中国武直10可媲美阿帕奇(组图)_新浪军事_新浪网<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2007-04-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071102215356/http://jczs.news.sina.com.cn/p/2007-04-09/0721438818.html |archive-date=2007-11-02 |url-status=live }}</ref>
|prime units?=met
|prime units?=met
<!--
<!--
Line 137: Line 142:
-->
-->
|crew=2
|crew=2
|length m=14.15
|length m=14.2
|length note={{citation needed|date=August 2017}}
|length note=<ref name="edr2024"/>
|height m=3.85
|height m=3.85
|height note={{citation needed|date=August 2017}}
|height note={{citation needed|date=August 2017}}
Line 145: Line 150:
|gross weight kg=5540
|gross weight kg=5540
|gross weight note=
|gross weight note=
|max takeoff weight kg=7000
|max takeoff weight kg=7200
|max takeoff weight note=
|max takeoff weight note=<ref name="edr2024"/>
|fuel capacity=
|fuel capacity=
|more general=
|more general=
Line 159: Line 164:
|rot number=1
|rot number=1
|rot dia m=13
|rot dia m=13
|rot dia note=<ref name="edr2024"/>
|rot area sqm=<!-- helicopters -->
|rot area sqm=<!-- helicopters -->
|rot area note=
|rot area note=
Line 164: Line 170:
Performance
Performance
-->
-->
|max speed kmh=270
|max speed kmh=290
|max speed note=
|max speed note=
|cruise speed kmh=230
|cruise speed kmh=230
Line 191: Line 197:
Armament
Armament
-->
-->
[[File:23 mm (0.906 in) PX-10A revolver cannon.jpg|thumb|23 mm PX-10A revolver cannon]]
|guns= 1x {{cvt|23|mm|3}} PX-10A revolver cannon<ref name="janes_231108">{{cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/defence/pla-arming-z-10-with-new-rocket-pods |title=PLA arming Z-10 with new rocket pods |website=Janes |date=8 November 2023 }}</ref>
|guns= 1x {{cvt|23|mm|3}} PX-10A revolver cannon<ref name="janes_231108">{{cite web|url=https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/defence/pla-arming-z-10-with-new-rocket-pods |title=PLA arming Z-10 with new rocket pods |website=Janes |date=8 November 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240720023208/https://www.janes.com/osint-insights/defence-news/defence/pla-arming-z-10-with-new-rocket-pods |archive-date=20 July 2024 }}</ref>
|bombs=
|bombs=
|rockets=
|rockets=
|missiles= For each hardpoint:
|missiles=
|hardpoints=4
|hardpoints=4
|hardpoint capacity={{cvt|1500|kg|0}} useful load<ref name="edr2024" />
|hardpoint capacity={{cvt|1500|kg|0}} useful load<ref name="edr2024" />
|hardpoint rockets= on each hard point with<br />
|hardpoint rockets= on each hard point with<br />
*** {{cvt|57|mm|3}} rocket pod (19-tube)<ref name="thinkhk_z10">{{cite web|url=https://www.thinkhk.com/article/2023-07/25/60989.html |title=甘若水:「霹靂火」配「火蛇」制導火箭彈精確獵殺 |website=Think Hong Kong |date=25 July 2023 }}</ref>
*** {{cvt|57|mm|3}} rocket pod (19-tube)<ref name="thinkhk_z10">{{cite web|url=https://www.thinkhk.com/article/2023-07/25/60989.html |title=甘若水:「霹靂火」配「火蛇」制導火箭彈精確獵殺 |website=Think Hong Kong |date=25 July 2023 }}</ref>
*** {{cvt|70|mm|3}} unguided rocket pod (7-tube)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.163.com/dy/article/I7N6KLHM051597CR.html |title=小飞棍来咯!直10装备火蛇新型制导火箭,多出14枚小导弹 |website=NatEase News |date=20 June 2023 }}</ref>
*** {{cvt|70|mm|3}} unguided rocket pod (7-tube)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.163.com/dy/article/I7N6KLHM051597CR.html |title=小飞棍来咯!直10装备"火蛇"新型制导火箭,多出14枚小导弹 |website=NatEase News |date=20 June 2023 }}</ref>
*** {{cvt|70|mm|3}} FS70 guided rocket pod (7-tube)<ref name="janes_231108" /> with FS70A (GR-5) {{cvt|70|mm|3}} guided rocket<ref name="thinkhk_z10" /><ref name="dn2024" /> or FS70B {{cvt|70|mm|3}} air burst fragmentation rocket<ref>{{cite web|url=https://aviationweek.com/shownews/singapore-airshow/singapore-hosts-foreign-debut-chinas-latest-attack-helicopter |title=Singapore Hosts Foreign Debut For China's Latest Attack Helicopter |website=Aviation Week |date=18 February 2024 |first=Steve |last=Trimble }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://aviationweek.com/shownews/singapore-airshow/video-international-debut-chinas-z-10me-singapore-airshow-2024 |title=Video: International Debut For China's Z-10ME At Singapore Airshow 2024 |website=Aviation Week |date=21 February 2024 |first=Steve |last=Trimble }}</ref>
*** {{cvt|70|mm|3}} FS70 guided rocket pod (7-tube)<ref name="janes_231108" /> with FS70A (GR-5) {{cvt|70|mm|3}} guided rocket<ref name="thinkhk_z10" /><ref name="dn2024" /> or FS70B {{cvt|70|mm|3}} air burst fragmentation rocket<ref>{{cite web|url=https://aviationweek.com/shownews/singapore-airshow/singapore-hosts-foreign-debut-chinas-latest-attack-helicopter |title=Singapore Hosts Foreign Debut For China's Latest Attack Helicopter |website=Aviation Week |date=18 February 2024 |first=Steve |last=Trimble }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://aviationweek.com/shownews/singapore-airshow/video-international-debut-chinas-z-10me-singapore-airshow-2024 |title=Video: International Debut For China's Z-10ME At Singapore Airshow 2024 |website=Aviation Week |date=21 February 2024 |first=Steve |last=Trimble }}</ref>
*** {{cvt|70|mm|3}} unguided rocket pod (19-tube)<ref name="janes_231108" />
*** {{cvt|70|mm|3}} unguided rocket pod (19-tube)<ref name="janes_231108" />
*** {{cvt|90|mm|3}} rocket pod (7-tube)<ref name="thinkhk_z10" /><ref>{{cite web|url=https://dw-media.tkww.hk/epaper/tkp/20230710/A11_Screen.pdf |title=直10火蛇奪島 攻碉堡獵戰車 |website=[[Ta Kung Pao]] |date=9 July 2023 |author=馬浩亮 }}</ref> with FS90A {{cvt|90|mm|3}} guided rocket<ref name="thinkhk_z10" /> or [[TG PGB#TJ series|''Tianjian'']] {{cvt|90|mm|3}} rockets<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.news.cn/mil/2023-06/21/c_1212236367.htm |title=制导火箭弹:直-10武装直升机的新点穴利器 |website=Xinhua |date=21 June 2023 }}</ref>
*** {{cvt|90|mm|3}} rocket pod (7-tube)<ref name="thinkhk_z10" /><ref>{{cite web|url=https://dw-media.tkww.hk/epaper/tkp/20230710/A11_Screen.pdf |title=直10火蛇奪島 攻碉堡獵戰車 |website=[[Ta Kung Pao]] |date=9 July 2023 |author=馬浩亮 }}</ref> with FS90A {{cvt|90|mm|3}} guided rocket<ref name="thinkhk_z10" /> or [[TG PGB#TJ series|''Tianjian'']] {{cvt|90|mm|3}} rockets<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.news.cn/mil/2023-06/21/c_1212236367.htm |title=制导火箭弹:直-10武装直升机的新"点穴利器" |website=Xinhua |date=21 June 2023 }}</ref>
|hardpoint missiles= on each hard point with<br />
|hardpoint missiles= on each hard point with<br />
*** 4× [[HJ-8]], [[HJ-9]] laser-guided air-to-surface missiles<ref name="AirForceWorld"/>
*** 4× [[HJ-8]], [[HJ-9]] laser-guided air-to-surface missiles<ref name="AirForceWorld"/>
Line 209: Line 216:
*** 4× AKD-21 (BA-21) millimetre-wave air-to-surface missiles
*** 4× AKD-21 (BA-21) millimetre-wave air-to-surface missiles
*** 4× AG300M or AG300L laser-guided air-to-surface missiles
*** 4× AG300M or AG300L laser-guided air-to-surface missiles
*** 4× [[CM-501G|CM-502KG]] or CM-502V NLOS air-to-surface missiles<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.163.com/dy/article/HB4VU9A80535I3QJ.html |title= 国产武直两款新弹亮相?25km射程堪称国产长钉,体积大只能双联装 |website=NetEase News |date= 30 June 2022 }}</ref><ref name="dn2024" />
*** 4× [[CM-501G|CM-502KG]] or CM-502V NLOS air-to-surface missiles<ref name="cm502">{{cite web|url= https://www.163.com/dy/article/HB4VU9A80535I3QJ.html |title= 国产武直两款新弹亮相?25km射程堪称国产长钉,体积大只能双联装 |website=NetEase News |date= 30 June 2022 }}</ref><ref name="dn2024" />
*** 2× [[CM-501G]]A NLOS air-to-surface missiles<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.keymilitary.com/article/china-shows |title=China Shows Off |date=15 December 2016 }}</ref>
*** 2× [[CM-501G]]A NLOS air-to-surface missiles<ref name="key_1612">{{cite web|url= https://www.keymilitary.com/article/china-shows |title=China Shows Off |website=Key Military |date=15 December 2016 }}</ref>
*** 1× CM-501XA loitering munition
*** 1× CM-501XA loitering munition
*** 4× [[TY-90]] [[air-to-air missile]]s<ref name="dn2024" />
*** 4× [[TY-90]] [[air-to-air missile]]s<ref name="dn2024" />
|hardpoint bombs=
|hardpoint bombs=<br />
***[[GB PGB|GB25]] and [[GB PGB|GB50]] guided bombs<ref name="z10me_2024"/>
|hardpoint other=<br />
|hardpoint other=<br />
***280kg drop tank<ref name="dn2024" />
***280kg drop tank<ref name="dn2024" />
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|avionics=
|avionics=
* Yu Huo (YH) millimetre-wave [[fire-control radar]]<ref name="edr2024" />
* Yu Huo (YH) millimetre-wave [[fire-control radar]]<ref name="edr2024" />
* YH-96 [[electronic warfare]] suite
* WXG1006 eclectic optical package
* [[Helmet mounted sight]] with [[night vision goggle]]s
* [[Helmet mounted sight]] with [[night vision goggle]]s
* BM/KG300G self-protection jamming pod
* KG300G self-protection jamming pod
* [[Blue Sky navigation pod]]
* [[Blue Sky navigation pod]]
* [[KZ900]] reconnaissance pod
* [[KZ900]] reconnaissance pod

* YH-96 [[electronic warfare]] suite
}}
}}


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* [[Denel Rooivalk]]
* [[Denel Rooivalk]]
* [[Eurocopter Tiger]]
* [[Eurocopter Tiger]]
* [[HAL Prachand]]
* [[Kamov Ka-52]]
* [[IAIO Toufan]]
* [[Kamov Ka-50]]
* [[Kawasaki OH-1]]
* [[Mil Mi-24]]
* [[Mil Mi-28]]
* [[Mil Mi-28]]
* [[Panha 2091]]
* [[TAI/AgustaWestland T129]]
|lists=<!-- related lists -->
|lists=<!-- related lists -->
* [[List of helicopters]]
* [[List of helicopters]]

Latest revision as of 14:18, 30 November 2024

Z-10
General information
TypeAttack helicopter
ManufacturerChanghe Aircraft Industries Corporation (CAIC)
Designer602nd Aircraft Design Institute[1]
Kamov Design Bureau[1]
StatusIn service[2]
Primary userPeople's Liberation Army Ground Force
People's Liberation Army Air Force
Pakistan Army Aviation Corps
History
Manufactured2003-present
Introduction date2009
First flight29 April 2003[3]

The Changhe Z-10 (Chinese: 直-10; pinyin: Zhí-Shí; lit. 'helicopter-10') is a Chinese medium-weight, twin-turboshaft attack helicopter built by the Changhe Aircraft Industries Corporation for the People's Liberation Army Ground Force. Designed by 602nd Aircraft Design Institute of Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC) and Kamov Design Bureau,[1] the aircraft is intended primarily for anti-tank warfare missions with secondary air-to-air combat capability.

The plan to develop a medium-weight helicopter program was initiated in 1994 with the attack helicopter program formally beginning in 1998. The preliminary design of the aircraft was provided by Kamov, while prototyping was conducted by the 602nd Aircraft Design Institute of Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC).[4][5][6][7] The Z-10 first flew on 29 April 2003[3] and entered Chinese Army Aviation service in 2009.[8][9][10]

Nicknames of characters in the Chinese classic novel Water Margin have been used to name Z-10 and its light-weight counterpart, the Harbin Z-19 by Chinese Army Aviation Corps; Z-10 is called Fierce Thunderbolt (Pi Li Huo, 霹雳火), the nickname of Qin Ming, while Z-19 is called Black Whirlwind (Hei Xuan Feng, 黑旋风), the nickname of Li Kui.[11][12][13]

Development and history

[edit]

Background

[edit]

The People's Liberation Army Ground Force (PLAGF) established its army aviation units in January 1988. The unit used helicopters transferred from People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF), including Mil Mi-4, Harbin Z-5, Mil Mi-8, and Aérospatiale Gazelle. By the mid-1980s, the Chinese decided to field dedicated attack helicopters. The brief honeymoon period between China and the West provided China opportunities to evaluate Agusta A129 Mangusta, AH-1 Cobra, and BGM-71 TOW missiles. However, the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests and massacre and the proceeding arms embargo prevented many deals from going through. Nevertheless, China successfully imported or licensed aircraft types such as Changhe Z-8, Harbin Z-9, Sikorsky S-70, Mi-17, and Aerospatiale AS332 Super Puma.[14]

There was also debate in China about whether the PLAGF or PLAAF should operate attack helicopters. Eventually, the PLAGF won and began to induct armed helicopters based on the Harbin Z-9 design. The use of the Z-9WA modification helped China realize the requirement for a dedicated attack helicopter platform.[14]

Development programs

[edit]
Changhe Z-10 showcased at Airshow China 2012

A preprimary plan to develop an attack helicopter in China began in 1992.[8][9] China began to develop the 6-ton class China Helicopter Medium (CHM) program in 1994, headed by the 602nd and 608th Research Institutes.[15] This program was later developed into Harbin Z-20.[14] In 1995, China commissioned Kamov to develop a preliminary design for the 6-ton helicopter, known as Project 941 internally. Project 941 was a large departure from traditional Soviet design, focusing entirely on the Chinese requirement. The concept was then handed to China for further development, which Kamov did not participate in.[4] Based on the concept, Chinese engineers developed prototypes[4] and iterate designs based on the testing results. The changes include modification on the airframe shapes to optimize radar cross section (RCS), changes on the engine bay shape to accommodate domestic engines, and the engine nozzle layout.[16]

China also secured assistance from Eurocopter France for the rotor system and AgustaWestland in 1997 for the transmission system in 1998.[5] Pratt & Whitney Canada and Hamilton Sundstrand secretly provided PT6C-67C engines and digital engine control systems to aid the programs, leading to them receiving investigations and penalties from the United States government.[6][7][17]

In 1998, the 602nd Research Institute proposed the Special Armed Project to develop the final design,[14] which was designated the Z-10.[10] Initially, the Z-10 project was planned to share its propulsion system with the CHM program, however, the two programs were separated and the Z-10 was prioritized to be completed first.[11] During the development in 2000, Denel also provided technical assistance to the project in the area of flight stability.[5] After the US government cut off engine sources from Pratt & Whitney, China turned to domestic replacements with lower thrust-rating, leading to further weight-saving design changes.[6] The replacement engine was the indigenous WZ-9 turboshaft.[5]

David Donald of Aviation International News claimed the Z-10 had a universal engine bay capable of fitting various types of engines, including Ukrainian Motor Sich TV3-117.[5] However, Chinese sources indicated the TV3-117 is incompatible with the Z-10's engine bay due to the driveshaft shape and prototypes were fitted with either Pratt & Whitney PT6C-67C or Chinese-built Turbomeca Makila turboshaft engines, whereas the final version uses WZ-9 turboshaft engines due to its fully indigenous origin.[16]

The Z-10 took its maiden flight on 29 April 2003.[3] The Z-10 entered PLA service in 2009[8][9][10] or 2010.[14]

Further development

[edit]

In March 2014, the Z-10 helicopter began deck trials with a People's Liberation Army Navy Type 072A-class landing ship. The purpose may be to qualify the helicopter on ships to provide air support for landing parties launched from the ship. Type 072A-class ships have a helipad but no hangar or support facilities for the aircraft on board. The Z-10 may also be qualified on the larger Type 071 amphibious transport dock.[18]

The Z-10 was one of the contenders to replace Pakistan's Bell AH-1F Cobra attack helicopters. In 2015, Pakistan acquired three Z-10s for trials,[19] but ultimately rejected the offer due to the inadequate WZ-9 engine.[20] After the failed bid, Chinese engineers began to upgrade to the Z-10 platform to improve its competitiveness.[20] A new prototype, designated Z-10ME, emerged in 2018 with a larger ammunition magazine size, new intake filtration systems, and new missile approach warning system (MAWS).[21] In the same year, more equipment was added to the prototype, such as a more powerful WZ-9C turboshaft[20] with 1,200 kW (1,600 shp) power, new infrared signature-reducing engine exhaust nozzle, appliqué graphene-based armor plates, etc.[21][22]

The PLAGF's domestic Z-10 fleet were upgraded to the Z-10ME standard with the 1,200 kW (1,600 shp) engines, armor plates, and infrared suppresion nozzles.[23][24][25] The Pakistan Army eventually purchased the Z-10ME as well.[26]

Design

[edit]

Overview

[edit]
Z-10 at the Military Museum of the Chinese People's Revolution

The Z-10 features a tandem cockpit compartment at the front section.[16] The airframe bulges below the cockpit, extending backward and merging with the stub wings and tail boom, creating a distinctive ridge dividing the top and bottom half of the blended fuselage, which are both canted inward, creating a hexagon-shaped frontal profile.[9][27] This slim, rhombic configuration ensures structural strength, increases internal volumes for equipment, and reduces the frontal projected area and overall radar cross section (RCS).[27][28] The radar-absorbent material is applied to the fuselage, further reducing the radar reflection and providing a certain degree of low observability.[16]

The rotor system consists of a single semirigid five-blade main rotor at the top and a four-blade tail rotor at the aft section.[16][27] The airfoil of the primary 95KT rotor blade[16] features a significant camber with swept tips, designed to reduce the blade length, vibration, and acoustic signature. The tail rotor consists of two sets of dual composite blades (four blades in total) mounted in an angled, non-orthogonal (scissor) arrangement[29] designed to reduce noise generated by the wingtip vortices. All blades are made with carbon fiber-wrapped spars with layered honeycomb composite for the skin, capable of sustaining damage against 12.7 mm (0.50 in) rounds.[16][27] The deicing device is fitted to the blades to increase flight safety in adverse weather.[27]

The fuselage is primarily made of aluminum alloy, with 30 percent of the mass being composite materials.[3][16] The cockpit compartment is wrapped inside carbon fibers, while the canopy is protected by bulletproof glasses of 38 mm (1.5 in) in thickness.[16] Additional protection layers made of aluminum alloy and kevlar are applied to the bottom of the cockpit, side of the engine bays, and around the self-sealing fuel tank.[27] The honeycomb composite layer is applied to the fuselage bottom, while the pilot seats, landing gears, and fuel tank are reinforced for improved crashworthiness.[27][28] The early model of Z-10 prioritizes protection in critical areas for weight reduction without sacrificing structural integrity, range, and payload. In later serial production, graphene armor plates are mounted on the side of the cockpit and engine housing to further improve the protection level.[27][30][23]

The Z-10's engine air intake is protected by a metal mesh to prevent foreign objects from being sucked in.[16] Newer variants can be installed with integrated inlet particle separators (IPS) for engine intake filtration, preventing harmful solid particulates such as sand and dust to damage the critical propulsion components.[22] The Z-10's engine system is fitted with the Hover Infrared Suppression System (HIRSS), mixing in the engine exhaust with cold air to reduce the helicopter's infrared characteristic.[27] Later serial production of Z-10 modified the engine nozzle from sideway-facing to the upward-facing direction, further reducing the signature from heat radiation.[24][22][31] The upward-facing exhaust nozzle, albeit beneficial for suppressing the infrared signature, would lead to additional drag, To resolve this, the engine on the Z-10 was upgraded to from 1,300 shp (970 kW) to 1,600 shp (1,200 kW) to make up the loss.[32]

Propulsion

[edit]
Changhe Z-10

The Z-10 prototype was powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6C-67C turboshaft engines,[33] which is equipped with Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system and sports a maximum continuous power of 1,142 kW (1,531 shp).[34] The early batches of Z-10 was powered by domestic Zhuzhou WZ-9 or WZ-9A turboshaft engine, providing 957–1,000 kW (1,283–1,341 shp) of power.[27][35] The reduced performance of WZ-9 turboshaft engines prevented Z-10 to carry its maximum payload of 16 anti-tank guided missiles.[1]

Multiple engines were developed to upgrade the propulsion of the Z-10. China and European partners reportedly developed WZ-16.[27][1] WZ-9 was upgraded to WZ-9C with 1,200 kW (1,600 shp) of maximum power.[25] The engine was originally designed for export, but subsequently used to upgrade early Z-10s batches.[23] The WZ-9C provides 30% more power than the original version,[31] providing the Z-10 with enough lift for a variety of payloads.[25]

The Z-10 emphasizes extended-range operation. The WZ-9A turboshaft engine allows the aircraft to fly at a maximum speed of 290 km/h (160 kn) and cruise speed of 230 km/h (120 kn). The internal tank supports a range of 800 km (430 nmi; 500 mi).[27]

Avionics

[edit]
PLAAF Z-10K releasing countermeasures
A Changhe Z-10 showing four underwing hardpoints. Defensive sensors such as MAWS, LWR, and RWR are visible on the nose section and wing edges.

Countermeasures

[edit]

The Z-10 features a comprehensive self-defense suite. The YH-96 electronic warfare system includes a set of infrared missile approach warning system (MAWS),[28] radar warning receivers (RWR) and laser warning receivers (LWR), both are connected with the 6×4 countermeasure dispensers (two on each side, four in total[22]) to release flare and chaff when incoming missiles are detected.[27] The system was upgraded on later variants with a different avionics layout,[20] replacing previously mounted radar and electro-optical sensors with integrated countermeasure suite, indicated by several active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar panels around the fuselage and two electro-optical suites mounted on the stub wings.[21] The radar panels are capable of passive signal detection, target searching, and active jamming, which also replace the function of missile approach warning system.[21][22][31] The electro-optical suites include new laser,[36] infrared, ultraviolet warning receivers,[37][21] and directional infrared countermeasure systems (DIRCM) to defend against infrared homing (IR) missiles.[26]

Targeting

[edit]

The primary sensor suite of Z-10 is the WXG1006 electro-optical (EO) package located at the nose section. The ball-shaped package contains a forward-looking infrared sensor, a TV camera, a laser rangefinder, and a laser designator.[38] The development of the primary electro-optical fire control systems (FCS) was influenced by French and Israeli systems but with locally programmed software.[16] The YH millimeter-wave radar was also developed for Z-10 to detect longer-range targets, and targets behind flog, smoke, and dust.[27][39] The mmWave radar can be installed on top of the main rotor mast.[39]

Cockpit and instrumentation

[edit]

The stepped tandem cockpit houses two pilots. The front pilot primarily controls the flight maneuver, while the back pilot handles the weapon system.[40][41] Both pilots have identical flight instrumentation,[40] serving as backups to each other, and both are capable of flight control and weapons operation.[28] Inside the cockpit is the digital flight instrument,[27][28] with the fly-by-wire Hands-On Collective And Stick (HOCAS) flight control.[16] Each pilot has two LCD multi-function displays (MFD) and multiple small displays for other information.[27][28][42] An additional holographic heads-up display (HUD) is provided for the front pilot.[16]

Each pilot also wears a helmet-mounted sight (HMS), similar to the Integrated Helmet and Display Sighting System (IHADSS) on the AH-64 Apache.[16] The helmet sight is fully integrated with FCS to control guided and unguided munitions and display onboard navigation information.[43] The pilots can slave the sensor suite and 23 mm (0.91 in) autocannon to their helmets, controlling the sensors and autocannon direction by turning their heads.[27] For all-weather operation, the helmet visor can be attached with a binocular-like night vision goggles (NVG),[44][43] which was later replaced with integrated NVGs that can display night-vision image directly inside the visor.[40][43]

Other navigation instruments of Z-10 include laser gyrocompass, radio altimeter, Doppler radar, inertial navigation, satellite navigation, and identification friend or foe (IFF) systems.[28][45]

Armaments and payload

[edit]
An upgraded Z-10 variant with 19-tube rocket pod and guided missiles mounted, flanked by various armaments at Zhuhai Airshow 2024
Z-10ME with avionics and armaments displayed at Singapore Airshow 2024

The Z-10 has a modular weapon system. The system uses the GJV289A standard, the Chinese equivalent of the MIL-STD-1553B databus architecture, which enables weaponry of Chinese, Soviet, and Western origin to be adopted by the Z-10.[16] Offensive weaponry consists of machine guns, cannons, rockets, and missiles. Internal armament consists of a gun mount installed on the chin of the aircraft with 180° of horizontal traverse.[27] Two stub wings provide attachment points for external ordnance or gun pods.[28][46] Each stub wings have two hardpoints,[28] for a total of four, and each hardpoint can carry up to 4 missiles, for a total of 16 missiles.[1]

The autocannon on the serial production Z-10 is the 23 mm (0.91 in) PX-10A automatic chain gun,[27][47][25] but the aircraft can also mount 20 mm (0.79 in),[31] 25 mm (0.98 in),[16] and 30 mm (1.2 in) autocannons,[16][28][1] with some of them marketed for export customers.

The air-to-surface missiles deployed by the Z-10 include HJ-8, HJ-9, HJ-10,[16] AKD-9, and AKD-10 anti-tank missiles.[38] Early AKD-10 utilizes semi-active laser (SAL) guidance, while later variants reportedly incorporate millimeter wave (MMW) seekers.[38] The Z-10 can also fire BA-21 long-range anti-tank missiles with a millimeter wave/semi-active laser dual model guidance seeker.[38] The missile can be fired from Z-10 and data-linked by millimeter-wave radar mounted on friendly platforms.[48] Aside from anti-tank missiles, the Z-10 can also carry SW6 air-launched drones,[31] CM-501GA none-line-of-sight air-to-surface missiles[49] CM-502KG anti-tank missiles,[50][32] CM-501XA loitering munitions,[31] ET60 324 mm (12.8 in) lightweight torpedo, with the last one providing Z-10 with useful, albeit limited, naval warfare capabilities.[31] The helicopter is compatible with GB25 and GB50 guided bombs.[37]

The main air-to-air missile deployed by the Z-10 is the TY-90,[38][26] a missile specifically designed for use by helicopters in aerial combat.[27] The TY-90 is much heavier than the MANPAD missiles usually carried by helicopters, providing better lethality and range.[51]

The Z-10 can launch a great variety of unguided and guided rockets. Under the stub wings, a total of four rocket pods can be mounted on the hardpoints. Options include the 19-tube 57 mm (2.244 in) rocket pod,[52] 7-tube 70 mm (2.756 in) Fire Snake rocket pod[53][25] with FS70A (GR-5) 70 mm (2.756 in) guided rocket[52][26] or FS70B 70 mm (2.756 in) air burst fragmentation rocket,[54][55] or 19-tube 70 mm (2.756 in) unguided rocket pod with anti-infantry fragmentation rockets.[25] 7-tube 90 mm (3.543 in) rocket pod is also available,[52][56] capable of firing the larger FS90A 90 mm (3.543 in) guided rocket[52] or Tianjian 90 mm (3.543 in) rocket.[57] Aside from the common calibers, the helicopter can support rockets from 20 mm (0.787 in) to 130 mm (5.118 in).[16]

For other types of payloads, the Z-10 can carry a KG300G self-defense electronic warfare (EW) pod, providing organic survivability for frontline ELINT and ESM defense.[58] The EW pod features a stealth enclosure, and is capable of providing multi-target jamming, spectrum searching, and digital radio frequency memory (DRFM) signal processing.[59] External fuel tanks be attached to further its operational and ferry ranges.[60] The helicopter can also underslung all-terrain vehicles (ATV) for special operation insertion support.[31] The Z-10 can underslung around 3 tonnes.[31]

Operational history

[edit]

Deployment

[edit]

In 2011, the Z-10 can be observed operating at PLAGF bases.[61] In September 2016, the PLA announced that all of its army aviation units had been equipped with the Z-10.[62] The helicopter is stationed in frontline regions, such as the Tibet plateau,[63] and Taiwan Strait.[60]

Export

[edit]

The Z-10 was one of the contenders to replace Pakistan's Bell AH-1F Cobra attack helicopters. In 2015, Pakistan acquired three Z-10s for trials,[64] but they rejected the offer due to the inadequate WZ-9 engine. Pakistan then chose Turkey's AH-1Z; however, contracts to acquire the AH-1Z and then the TAI/AgustaWestland T129 ATAK (which uses the American LHTEC CTS800–4A engine) fell through because of worsening relations with the United States.[65] In January 2022, negotiations to acquire the Z-10ME were underway;[66] the Z-10ME had been identified as a fallback option by February 2020.[65] In June 2022, Pakistan's deal with T129 ATAK was reportedly canceled, and the Pakistan government was seeking the acquisition of Z-10ME.[67] Pakistan military reportedly received the first batch of Z-10ME in 2023.[26]

According to Boneham of Janes Information Services, the advantages of the Z-10ME were its capabilities and affordability, when compared with similar Western platforms. The helicopter is suitable for countries without access to Western and Russian hardware.[36] Malcolm Davis of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute believed the Z-10ME offered the capability gap of operating air-launched UAVs, and potential candidates included Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar, etc. However, Davis believed the demand for advanced helicopters was quite small in these economies.[68]

Strategic implications

[edit]

In June 2012, the United States charged United Technologies and two of its subsidiaries, Pratt & Whitney Canada and Hamilton Sundstrand, of selling engine control software to China which aided in the development of the Changhe Z-10.[69] While the Chinese defense ministry denied that China bought or used the software, Pratt & Whitney Canada and Hamilton Sundstrand agreed to pay more than $75 million to the U.S. government to settle the charges.[70]

Variants

[edit]
Z-10K Variant
Z-10 Prototype
Prototype for basic tests. Not all had the same layout in that some had a fenestron configuration while others had a traditional tail rotor configuration; some had a chin gun turret while others had a chain gun; some had nose-mounted electro-optical systems while others had mast-mounted electro-optical systems.
Z-10H
Pre-production series powered by Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6C-76 turboshaft engine.[33]
Z-10
Equipped with the domestic Chinese WZ-9 engine, the Standard Z-10 initially launched without external armor panels due to the limitations of the engine. This model established the baseline for the Z-10 series' capabilities.
Z-10K
Z-10K is modified variant derived from the standard Z-10 at the request of the People's Liberation Army Air Force Airborne Corps.
Z-10 Upgrade
In 2018, older batches began to be upgraded alongside newly manufactured models.[71] The ceramic/graphene composite armor plates (on the engine covering and below the cockpit windows) and a new MAWS, both introduced initially on the Z-10ME, were installed on some of the Z-10. The upward-facing engine nozzle was not installed during the early stage of the upgrade program, possibly waiting for the engine replacement.[23] Subsequently, the fleet was upgraded to more powerful WZ-9C engines, new data-link enabled missiles, IRCM systems, and upward-facing exhaust nozzles (to lower infrared visibility). It also introduces an advanced IFF system and an enhanced BeiDou navigation system antenna, significantly improving Z-10's operational capabilities.[1][24][25]
Z-10 Export Prototypes
3 samples built for Pakistan,[42] powered by the early WZ-9 engine with maximum power around 930 kW (1,250 shp). It was not selected by Pakistan after evaluation due to insufficient engine power at the plateau condition.[20]
Z-10ME (2018)
"ME" stands for upgrade export variant. The first prototype, designated Z-10ME-01, was unveiled in 2018.[21] The ME-01 prototype was initially fitted with a larger ammunition magazine with tripled ammunition belts, a mesh-like intake filtration system, and a new missile approach warning system (MAWS).[21] In Zhuhai Airshow 2018,[23] the Z-10ME-01 was updated with additional equipment,[21] including active and passive countermeasures, radar warning receiver, new engine exhaust nozzle pointed upwards to reduce infrared signature,[21] a more sophisticated intake filtration system, a more powerful WZ-9C[20] turboshaft with 1,200 kW (1,600 shp) power, appliqué graphene-based armor panels,[21] infrared jammer, and a new IFF interrogator.[22][31] Z-10ME-01 can install a millimeter wave fire control radar at the top of the rotor masat.[37][72] The Z-10ME-01 at Zhuhai Airshow 2018 served as the basis for upgrading PLAGF's domestic Z-10 fleet.[23][72]
Z-10ME (2021)
A configuration of Z-10ME first observed in 2021 as the second prototype named Z-10ME-02.[21] It was showcased internationally in 2024 Singapore Airshow.[73] The new variant improved low-altitude flight performance[36] and has a different avionics layout around the fuselage.[20] The new electronics warfare system consists of serveal multi-purpose active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar panels, capable of passive signal detection, target searching, missile approach warning, and active jamming.[21] It's also fitted with an over-the-rotor mast-mounted Yu Huo millimeter wave fire control radar to detect long-range targets.[21][39] Beside radars, the Z-10ME-02 features an integrated electro-optical (EO) countermeasure system with new detection sensors (replacing the previous laser/infrared/ultraviolet warning alarms) and new active directional infrared countermeasure systems (DIRCM) to counter against infrared homing (IR) missiles.[21][26][74] All radar and EO sensors on Z-10ME-02 are interconnected to provide comprehensive situation awareness and operational flexibility.[21]

Operators

[edit]
PLAGF Z-10 ground crew
 People's Republic of China

Pakistan Islamic Republic of Pakistan

Specifications (Z-10)

[edit]

Data from Military Digest [76]

General characteristics

  • Crew: 2
  • Length: 14.2 m (46 ft 7 in) [39]
  • Height: 3.85 m (12 ft 8 in) [citation needed]
  • Empty weight: 5,100 kg (11,244 lb)
  • Gross weight: 5,540 kg (12,214 lb)
  • Max takeoff weight: 7,200 kg (15,873 lb) [39]
  • Powerplant: 2 × WZ-9C turboshaft engines, 1,200[25] kW (1,600 hp) each
  • Main rotor diameter: 13 m (42 ft 8 in) [39]

Performance

  • Maximum speed: 290 km/h (180 mph, 160 kn)
  • Cruise speed: 230 km/h (140 mph, 120 kn)
  • Range: 800 km (500 mi, 430 nmi)
  • Service ceiling: 6,400 m (21,000 ft)
  • g limits: +3
  • Rate of climb: 12 m/s (2,400 ft/min)
    23 mm PX-10A revolver cannon

Armament

  • Guns: 1x 23 mm (0.906 in) PX-10A revolver cannon[25]
  • Hardpoints: 4 with a capacity of 1,500 kg (3,307 lb) useful load[39], with provisions to carry combinations of:
    • Rockets: on each hard point with
      • 57 mm (2.244 in) rocket pod (19-tube)[52]
      • 70 mm (2.756 in) unguided rocket pod (7-tube)[77]
      • 70 mm (2.756 in) FS70 guided rocket pod (7-tube)[25] with FS70A (GR-5) 70 mm (2.756 in) guided rocket[52][26] or FS70B 70 mm (2.756 in) air burst fragmentation rocket[78][79]
      • 70 mm (2.756 in) unguided rocket pod (19-tube)[25]
      • 90 mm (3.543 in) rocket pod (7-tube)[52][80] with FS90A 90 mm (3.543 in) guided rocket[52] or Tianjian 90 mm (3.543 in) rockets[81]
    • Missiles: on each hard point with
      • HJ-8, HJ-9 laser-guided air-to-surface missiles[45]
      • 4× AKD-10 (BA-7) laser-guided air-to-surface missiles
      • 4× AKD-9 (BA-9) laser-guided air-to-surface missiles
      • 4× AKD-21 (BA-21) millimetre-wave air-to-surface missiles
      • 4× AG300M or AG300L laser-guided air-to-surface missiles
      • CM-502KG or CM-502V NLOS air-to-surface missiles[50][26]
      • CM-501GA NLOS air-to-surface missiles[49]
      • 1× CM-501XA loitering munition
      • TY-90 air-to-air missiles[26]
    • Bombs:
    • Other:

Avionics

See also

[edit]

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era

Related lists

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b c d e f g h Gady, Franz-Stefan (26 February 2020). "China Unveils Latest Z-10 Attack Helicopter Variant". The Diplomat.
  2. ^ "China's 1st attack helo goes operational? - The DEW Line". The DEW Line. Archived from the original on 5 November 2012. Retrieved 4 February 2015.
  3. ^ a b c d "直10首飞20周年:"霹雳火"铁翼飞旋二十载". ST Daily. 28 April 2023.
  4. ^ a b c Majumdar, Dave (7 March 2013). "HELI-EXPO: Chinese WZ-10 attack helicopter based on Kamov design". Flight Global. Archived from the original on 25 June 2014. Retrieved 3 July 2014.
  5. ^ a b c d e Donald, David (15 March 2013). "Kamov Reveals Involvement in China's Z-10 Attack Helicopter". Aviation International News. Midland Park, New Jersey. Archived from the original on 11 October 2023. Retrieved 18 January 2024.
  6. ^ a b c "Russian Roots Revealed In China's Z-10". Aviation Week. 7 March 2013. Archived from the original on 14 July 2014. Retrieved 3 July 2014.
  7. ^ a b Ingersoll, Geoffrey (8 March 2013). "China's Cutting-Edge Attack Helicopter Is Actually A Russian Design". Business Insider. Archived from the original on 14 July 2014. Retrieved 3 July 2014.
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