The Chinese People’s Liberation Army has for the first time deployed its new Z-20T Assault Eagle attack helicopter to participate in major exercises, marking a major turning point in the modernisation of Chinese close air support capabilities.
This followed the aircraft’s first public appearance during a military parade on September 3, and its subsquent debut in flight demonstrations at the 7th China Helicopter Exposition in Tianjin in October.
The exercises were conducted by an Army aviation brigade of the 71st Group Army in eastern Fujian province, in close proximity to the Taiwan Strait, and showcased its low-altitude penetration, semi-hover “single-wheel” landings, and rapid troop deployment capabilities under realistic field conditions.
Chinese Z-20T Attack Helicopter
The exercises provided rare insight into how helicopters may be utilised under combat conditions, including in a potential cross-straits war that pits the mainland’s People’s Liberation Army against the rival Republic of China Armed Forces based on Taiwan.
The two rival Chinese governments have been technically in a state of civil war for over 70 years.
American Buddhist Net 