In a landmark move to bolster its aerial firepower and integrated battlefield capabilities, the Pakistan Army has formally inducted the state-of-the-art Z-10ME attack helicopters, a next-generation combat platform developed by China’s Aviation Industry Corporation, into its Army Aviation Corps. The induction ceremony, held at the Muzaffargarh Field Firing Ranges, was presided over by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir, who later witnessed a live demonstration of the helicopters’ firepower. While the number of units inducted was not disclosed, the operational unveiling of the Z-10ME signifies a transformative step in the Army’s pursuit of cutting-edge warfare capability.
Described by military analysts as a high-performance, multi-role combat platform, the Z-10ME brings enhanced agility, precision targeting, and advanced electronic warfare capabilities to Pakistan’s battlefield doctrine. Equipped with modern radar suites and electronic countermeasure systems, the helicopter is designed for round-the-clock, all-weather operations and is capable of engaging aerial and ground threats with lethal accuracy.
According to Radio Pakistan, the inclusion of the Z-10ME will significantly augment the Army’s integrated combat response and serve as a force multiplier in any future conflict scenario. The helicopter’s induction marks a new era in the modernization of Pakistan Army Aviation and is expected to enhance deterrence posture along critical frontlines.
The Z-10ME was first showcased internationally at the Singapore Air Show in February 2024, where it attracted attention for its advanced specifications. At the time, Pakistan was reported to be the only known export customer, although no official sale was announced during the event, according to Reuters.
This acquisition comes after a prior evaluation of the Z-10 platform in 2021, when China provided three units to Pakistan for trial purposes. However, those helicopters were returned after failing to meet operational benchmarks. Despite that, experts including former Australian defence attaché Brian Cloughley had noted that the Pakistan Army remained open to assessing the upgraded Z-10ME variant, which now appears to have met its strategic and technical criteria.
The Z-10ME’s induction is being viewed as a decisive upgrade in Pakistan’s offensive aviation capability, reflecting a broader commitment to technological modernization and enhanced readiness in a rapidly evolving regional security environment.
