China’s Z-10 attack helicopters, together with the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s (PLAN) Type 075 amphibious assault ships, are once again positioned at the center of the Asian Giant’s expanding amphibious capabilities, following a recent state-television report confirming for the first time their operational compatibility. The information, released by China Central Television (CCTV), points to a significant expansion of the variety of aircraft Beijing can project from its largest platforms, strengthening shipborne air power for landing missions and joint operations.
The CCTV report highlighted that the in-service Type 075 amphibious assault ships can carry “dozens of helicopters” of various models, including the Z-8 and Z-18 transports, the utility Z-20, and—now confirmed for the first time—the Z-10 attack helicopter. This confirmation comes after years of speculation from analysts who had observed earlier exercises suggesting such compatibility.
According to the state broadcaster, the Type 075 ships—whose fourth unit, Hubei (34), was delivered in August 2025—form the backbone of the Navy’s large-scale landing operations. With a full-load displacement close to 40,000 tons, these ships feature a deck capable of supporting the simultaneous operation of multiple helicopters, in addition to accommodating Type 726A hovercraft and amphibious armored vehicles. This combination transforms the traditional horizontal landing model into a three-dimensional one, integrating airborne insertions, beyond-the-horizon projection, and vehicle-borne assaults.
Until now, one of the most relevant precedents regarding the Z-10 and naval forces dated back to August 2020. In that exercise, covered by local media, PLA Army aviation units took off from the landing ship Yimengshan, showing Beijing’s early intent to advance interoperability between ground and naval forces and marking the first integration of both platforms.
The Z-10 has been described as a medium attack helicopter designed for frontline assault support, capable of extending the reach and intensity of air support in an amphibious operation. Military aviation expert Fu Qianshao explained that the Z-10’s ability to take off and land vertically without an airfield provides an important advantage in island operations. Additionally, the aircraft’s maximum takeoff weight has increased thanks to more powerful domestically developed engines, allowing it to carry heavier weapons.
The Z-10 attack helicopter measures 14.1 meters in length and 3.85 meters in height, with a 12-meter-diameter main rotor. It has a maximum speed of 300 km/h, a cruise speed of 250 km/h, a range of 800 km, and a service ceiling of 6,000 meters. Its armament includes a 30 mm cannon, HJ-9 or HJ-10 anti-tank missiles, and TY-90 air-to-air missiles.
In parallel, China’s Navy is advancing in diversifying aircraft capable of operating from this class of ship. Last July, it was reported that naval Z-20J helicopters had begun deploying from Type 075 ships, marking another step in consolidating China’s maritime rotary-wing aviation. The potential addition of the Z-10—an aircraft originally designed for land-based support—underscores the evolution of China’s integrated joint-operations doctrine.
Lastly, reflecting this integration, in 2023 PLA Army Z-10 helicopters tested new rocket launchers during maritime exercises off Fujian province, performing radar-evading maneuvers, low-altitude flights, and attacks on targets located on islands and reefs. All this, according to observers and specialists, adds a new level to China’s increasingly dynamic and offensive regional posture, enhancing tactical flexibility and broader strategy.
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