×

Maintenance Repair & Overhaul Space Air Cargo

Home- Stories

The Z-18F helicopter, China’s new anti-submarine weapon

: Aug 18, 2014 - : 12:12 am

Z-18F

To strengthen the anti-submarine capability of the People’s Liberation Army Navy, Z-18F helicopters will likely serve on the Liaoning, the nation’s first aircraft carrier, and the Type 071 Yuzhao-class amphibious transport docks, according to a report by the Hangzhou-based Qianjiang Evening News on August 12.

The paper cited a Chinese military website which stated that the Z-18F is likely a modified version of the Z-8F helicopter designed based on the French-built SA 321 Super Frelon. From photos storiesed online, Chinese military expert Li Xiaojian told the paper that the Z-18F is probably equipped with four eight-tube sonobuoy launchers, allowing the helicopter to carry 32 sonobuoys. A US SH-60 Seahawk, in comparison, is only able to carry 25 sonobuoys, according to Li.

Li also stated that the Z-18F is likely able to carry four 324mm torpedos simultaneously with the two external stores support system it has. Most anti-submarine helicopters designed in Western nations such as the SH-60, the NH-90 and the Super Lynx are only able to carry two torpedoes. Li said, however, that Westland’s EH-101 is a better and more advanced anti-submarine platform than the Z-18F.

As the Z-18F helicopter is bulky, weighing 13 tonnes, Li said that none of the destroyers or frigates the PLA Navy currently has in its possession are capable of carrying it, therefore, only large vessels like the Liaoning and the Type 071 amphibious transport dock can carry it.

MORE NEWS

Headquartered in Singapore with reporters spread across all major regions, GBP Aerospace & Defence is a leading media house that publishes three publications that serve the aerospace and defence sector - Asian Defence Technology, Asian Airlines & Aerospace and Daily News. Known industry-wide for quality journalism, GBP Aerospace & Defence is present at more international tradeshows and exhibitions than any other competing publication in the region.
For over three decades, our award-winning team of reporters has been producing top-notch content to help readers stay abreast of the latest developements in the field of commercial aviation, MRO, defence, and Space.

Popular Posts

Copyright 2024. GBP. All Rights Reserved.

Home Defence & Security Space Commercial Aviation Maintence Repair & Overhaul Daily News Events About Us