
China has begun delivering Z-10ME attack helicopters to Pakistan, marking a significant step in Islamabad’s rotary-wing modernization. Though neither country officially confirmed the deal, verified images show the aircraft with Pakistani markings. The acquisition fills a capability gap caused by the stalled U.S. sale of AH-1Z Vipers, which was halted amid political tensions. The Z-10ME, China’s export variant of its Z-10, is expected to replace aging AH-1F Cobras that have served since the 1980s. Reports indicate the deliveries have progressed beyond evaluation and testing stages.