The announcement follows heightened regional tensions since the India-Pakistan conflict in May, during which Pakistan used Chinese J-10C fighter jets to down Indian aircraft, including Rafale jets. Indian military sources later acknowledged the losses, attributing them in part to underestimating the range of China’s PL-15 missiles.

Built by Changhe Aircraft Industries, the Z-10ME is a medium-weight combat helicopter designed for challenging environments like the Tibet Plateau and Taiwan Strait. A previous batch tested by Pakistan in 2018 was returned after performance issues, but the upgraded Z-10ME features improved low-altitude flight and situational awareness.

Strategic Partnership Reinforced Through Weapons Deal

Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Asim Munir, recently met with Chinese military leaders, including Zhang Youxia, vice-chair of China’s Central Military Commission. During those talks, Beijing pledged to expand military cooperation, including advanced weapons transfers. The helicopter induction is part of a broader modernization push, with Pakistan confirming plans to purchase more Chinese arms, including top-tier fighter jets.

Defense analysts note the strategic importance of the partnership, as Pakistan plays a key role in China's regional defense strategy. “China is focused on securing its periphery in light of Indo-U.S. cooperation,” said Imtiaz Gul, head of the Center for Research and Security Studies in Islamabad.