Video: International Debut For China's Z-10ME At Singapore Airshow 2024

Aviation Week Network’s defense editor, Steve Trimble, explains China’s international debut for the Changhe Z-10ME.

The Z-10ME is the latest and most powerful version of this helicopter. This upgraded version features exhaust nozzles that turn 90 deg., so the exhaust points up instead of to the side, which is good for suppressing the aircraft's infrared signature against threats like heat-seeking missiles. However, the downside is that it creates more drag and results in offsetting with more thrust.

The first time we’re seeing the Changhe Z-10ME is at Singapore Airshow 2024; it’s also the first time it’s been seen outside China's borders. China is trying to get the aircraft sold, and there were rumors in 2022 that the Pakistan Army was going to purchase it, but the reports were later denied.

There is a lot of interest in attack helicopters in Southeast Asia and Asia-Pacific, as well as the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America - these are the markets to which China is likely to sell the F-10ME. If successful, it will be huge as China hasn't really exported attack helicopters abroad.

It remains to be seen what the reception will be for this type of military aircraft in the international market.