Why the PLA’s Z-10 attack helicopter is taking a bigger role at sea

The People's Liberation Army's main attack helicopter, the Z-10, is being increasingly prepared for operations at sea. Originally built to hunt tanks and support ground troops, the Z-10 is now training to fly from ships, which could give Beijing extra firepower in an amphibious assault on Taiwan. The Z-10, manufactured by AVIC subsidiary Changhe Aircraft Industries Corporation, entered service with the PLA Army in late 2010 and began documented shipboard trials in 2014.

Its maritime role has gradually expanded since then, with the PLA operating Z-10s near the Taiwan Strait and testing their use on semi-submersibles. The helicopter's combat radius is estimated at 114km to 294km, which is less than the width of the Taiwan Strait at its narrowest point. This range limitation may explain the PLA's interest in semi-submersibles as forward refueling and rearming points.

The Z-10's capabilities include firing rockets at simulated maritime targets, and recent footage shows it training with other helicopters and drones at sea. Despite being developed mainly for land battlefields, China is testing a new attack helicopter, the Z-21, which could enter service by the end of 2027.