Chinese navy tests new Z-20 helicopter for use on its warships
- Photos carried by news website show modified model of the aircraft on what is believed to be the Nanchang guided-missile destroyer
- Military analyst says it ‘could fill a big gap’ in China’s expanding fleet
China’s navy is testing a ship-based model of the new Z-20 helicopter for its advanced destroyers, mainland media reported, as it seeks to boost the combat capability of its warships.
A modified model of the helicopter is seen on the rear deck of a large ship – believed to be the Type 055 guided-missile destroyer Nanchang – in photos carried by Sina News.
The Z-20 is a multi-role medium-lift helicopter developed by the Harbin Aircraft Industry Group, a subsidiary of the Aviation Industry Corp of China. Its first flight was in 2013, and the army helicopter has reportedly been deployed in the People’s Liberation Army Air Force.
The photos appear to show a naval model of the helicopter with folding rotor blades and tail, which would mean it could fit into the limited space of a ship hangar. Its position on the deck, meanwhile, suggests its rear wheels have been enhanced for landing on a warship.
Song Zhongping, a military analyst in Hong Kong, said the latest Z-20 could have been undergoing testing before it goes into large-scale production for PLA Navy use on its expanding fleet of large surface vessels.
“The PLA Navy has had a shortage of home-grown ship-borne helicopters for a long time,” Song said. “When it’s ready, the Z-20 could fill a big gap.”