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Mainland China’s new Z-20 helicopter reports for duty in Hong Kong
- The Z-20 is a multirole aircraft that can meet a range of needs in the city, according to observers
- The helicopter will add to the Z-9s and Z-10s at the PLA garrison
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Mainland China’s new version of the US’ Black Hawk helicopter has been deployed to the PLA’s garrison in Hong Kong, a choice well suited to the city’s terrain and mission, according to military analysts.
Photos of Z-20 helicopters flying over Pat Heung, home to the garrison’s airfield, have been posted on Chinese social media platform Weibo, indicating the new advanced copter has started operations in Hong Kong.
The Z-20s will add to the smaller Z-9 and Z-10 aircraft already at the garrison but will fulfil a different need, according to former PLA instructor Song Zhongping.
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“The Z-20 has a capacity of 10 tonnes, a good size for use by the military and police in anti-terrorist, disaster relief, anti-submarine, early warning and transport operations, among others,” Song said.
“What Hong Kong needs is a multirole aircraft like the Z-20 to help the garrison and local police deal with forest fires and public emergencies.”
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This would allow the People’s Liberation Army garrison’s air force to work with the city’s Government Flying Service if needed, he said.
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