China tests ‘mystery’ helicopter type, inducts Russian-built Mi-171s
As well as testing a mysterious new helicopter type, China may end up exporting the Z-10ME attack helicopter to Pakistan. (Photo: author)
Chinese media has reported that a mysterious new helicopter with ‘innovative design’, intended for military use, made its maiden flight in March.
In March 2019, the Changhe Aircraft Industry Group and China Helicopter Research and Development Institute launched a self-funded project to develop this new rotary-wing type.
The project was reviewed this March in a joint work conference, the institute said in a press release published on its WeChat account. It stated that the new aircraft successfully completed its first flight and is conducting more test flights to verify performance.
The two entities are members of AVIC, and the statement claimed
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
France and UK to resume and upgrade Storm Shadow/SCALP production
The new ‘Entente Industrielle’ will work on a range of other projects to boost the UK economy and defence industry, including joint development on new high-tech frequency weapons and extended range air-to-air missiles.
-
Boeing E-7A still in South Korean AEW&C competition, despite dropout reports
The E-7A is one of three aircraft submitted for the South Korean AEW&C II competition, which seeks to acquire four more aircraft of the type for its air force by 2028.
-
France pushes for 80% workshare as FCAS programme nears critical development stage
Tensions on the programme have long simmered, with Airbus and Dassault recently clashing over workshare in June ahead of the Paris Air Show. The sixth-generation fighter programme is due to replace Rafale and Eurofighter Typhoon jets beginning in 2040.
-
US Air Force conducts climate testing with the T-7A Red Hawk
The trainer aircraft recently completed the second round of extreme weather trials after enduring icy, windy and sunny conditions.
-
US Navy acquires additional anti-submarine warfare kits for P-8A Poseidon aircraft
The contract modification, awarded to Boeing, is worth $61.2 million and will support the US Navy’s (USN's) evolution of its P-8 Poseidon aircraft as continued upgrades are made to boost its capabilities and lethality.
-
Union slams “self-sabotage” of UK government over Typhoon production
The UK Ministry of Defence remains resolute that the Typhoon sits at the heart of the country’s air defence capabilities and is focused on the aircraft’s potential export orders, despite its continued focus on F-35 procurement.