Kamov
Z-10
The Z‑10 is a modern attack helicopter that entered service with the People’s Liberation Army Air Force in the early 2010s. Although the request names Kamov as its builder, the Z‑10 was actually developed by China’s Harbin Aircraft Manufacturing Corporation in partnership with the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC). The program began in the late 1990s as a response to the PLA’s need for a purpose‑built light attack platform capable of close‑air support, anti‑armor missions and battlefield reconnaissance.
Key features include a twin‑engine layout, a glass cockpit with multifunction displays, and a highly integrated avionics suite that supports night‑vision, helmet‑mounted sighting and digital data links. The rotor system is a conventional fully‑articulated main rotor with a fenestron tail rotor, granting reduced acoustic signature and improved maneuverability. Armament is versatile: the helicopter can carry a 23 mm cannon, anti‑tank guided missiles, air‑to‑air missiles, rockets and external fuel tanks, all selectable via the pilot’s helmet‑mounted sight.
The Z‑10’s significance lies in its demonstration that China can produce a competitive indigenous attack helicopter, narrowing the capability gap with Western platforms. Its deployment has strengthened the PLA’s expeditionary reach, and the type serves as a foundation for future variants that incorporate stealth shaping and more advanced sensor fusion.
Key features include a twin‑engine layout, a glass cockpit with multifunction displays, and a highly integrated avionics suite that supports night‑vision, helmet‑mounted sighting and digital data links. The rotor system is a conventional fully‑articulated main rotor with a fenestron tail rotor, granting reduced acoustic signature and improved maneuverability. Armament is versatile: the helicopter can carry a 23 mm cannon, anti‑tank guided missiles, air‑to‑air missiles, rockets and external fuel tanks, all selectable via the pilot’s helmet‑mounted sight.
The Z‑10’s significance lies in its demonstration that China can produce a competitive indigenous attack helicopter, narrowing the capability gap with Western platforms. Its deployment has strengthened the PLA’s expeditionary reach, and the type serves as a foundation for future variants that incorporate stealth shaping and more advanced sensor fusion.
Classification
Production & History
- First Flight
- 2003
Design & Classification
- Manufacturer
- Kamov
- Developer
- Kamov, 602nd Aircraft Design Institute
- Military Designation
- Z-10
- Wikidata ID
- Q1094179