China's First Z-10 Attack Helicopter Unveiled at International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai

  • 12 years ago
The three Shenzhou 9 astronauts, Jing Haipeng, Liu Wang and Liu Yang, flew to Zhuhai in south China's Guangdong Province on Monday night to attend the 9th China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition, which is due to open on Tuesday.

All former pilots of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Air Forces, they are looking forward very much to this air show.

"All you know that I was a fighter pilot. At this air show, I'm keen to see home-made planes. I piloted fighter J-6, which is not as advanced as present models. But the experience then laid a very solid foundation for my present career as an astronaut. If possible, I want to have a cockpit feel. Although I have no chance to pilot J-10 or other fighters of the third generation, I think I will probably realize my dream at the show tomorrow," said Jing Haipeng.

Liu Wang was also a pilot and he is very interested in the new equipment of the Chinese Air Force and especially the aerobatics at the air show.

"I was a pilot and I have a strong liking for flying and aircraft. Whenever I hear the sound of a fighter, I'll lift up my head toward the sky. I'll keep this feeling forever. Because of this, I have great interest in this air show," said Liu Wang.

In their three-day stay in Zhuhai, the three astronauts will also communicate with Zhuhai residents and the PLA troops stationed in the city.

"I think I'll have an opportunity to communicate and exchange with people face-to-face, which can better deliver my affection, and allows live, direct expression and exchanges," said Liu Yang.

The first domestically-developed Chinese Z-10 attack helicopter gave an amazing performance Tuesday afternoon at the 9th China International Aviation & Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai, south China's Guangdong Province.
The helicopter performed a series of breathtaking stunts, such as revolving, hovering, and reverse flying and flipping, which proved its good maneuverability and flexibility.
The reverse flying finished by Z-10 seemed very simple, but it is unique for armed attack helicopters. Other types of aircraft with fixed wings can not perform the movement.
Hovering around ground targets at low altitude seemed simple too, yet it is the most often used movement in carrying out surveillance and attack tasks. Other tactical movements frequently used in battles include focusing on ground targets to bring them under control, and standing ready for attack.
It is said that armed attack helicopter is designed for control of air combat at a tree-top height. And now the Z-10s developed by China can be used for supporting carriers and scout planes in future battles.