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| Z-8 |
Militarymedia.net | Between 1975 and 1977 the first batch of 12 or 13 French Navy Aerospatiale SA321 Super Frelon helicopters were delivered to China. The helicopter is delivered in two main variants configured for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) and Search and Rescue (SAR) operations. It was the first helicopter in China's inventory capable of operating from the flight deck of a warship. China obtained a production license for the Super Frelon helicopter, which was produced locally as the Z-8. Interestingly China also obtained a production license for the Aerospatiale Dauphin (Z-9). Preparations for producing the original version of the Super Frelon at the Changhe aircraft factory began in 1976. However due to technical difficulties and funding problems, the program was effectively discontinued in 1979. The program was resumed in 1985 and the Chinese prototype made its first flight during the same year. The Chinese licensed version of the Super Frelon is known as the Changhe Z-8. It entered service in 1989. At the time of its introduction it was the largest helicopter produced in China. A number of original variants of the basic Z-8 were built for the Chinese army and navy. This helicopter remains in service with the Chinese military. Also the Z-8 was produced for civilian use.
The basic Z-8 is an anti-submarine warfare or land-based or ship-based search and rescue helicopter. The ASW version is equipped with a French HS-12 surface search radar, sonar and sonobuoy. Also carries a Whitehead A244S torpedo under the fuselage. It can also be equipped with YJ-81 and YJ-83K anti-ship missiles, as well as external pods with guns or unguided rockets. This helicopter is also used to transport supplies and transport marines.
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| Z-8 Helicopter |
Co-pilot and pilot seats cockpit.
The Z-8 is a 3-engine helicopter. Two engines are mounted close to each other, while the third is located behind the main rotor system. The helicopter is powered by a Chinese WZ-6 engine, a copy of the Turbomeca Turmo. Each engine can produce 1511 shp. It uses a 6-blade main rotor. Additional fuel tanks can be installed in the cab for extended reach.
This helicopter is designed to operate in adverse weather conditions. The naval version has a body like a boat and in an emergency can land in water. The army version has a standard airframe.
The large cabin accommodates up to 27 fully equipped troops or 15 stretchers. Passengers enter and leave the helicopter through sliding side doors or back ramps. This helicopter can carry around 3 tons of cargo.
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| Z-8 Helicopter |
Z-8 Variant
The Z-8A is the transport version for the Chinese army. It was meant to carry troops and supplies. It reportedly made its first flight in 1995. A pair of helicopters were delivered for evaluation to the Chinese army in 2001. A batch of 6 Z-8A helicopters were delivered in 2002. These helicopters retain the nose radar and side buoys. However, the Chinese army was not happy with the Z-8A's performance, as this helicopter required intensive maintenance and was reported to be prone to breaking down in the air. Other variants of the Z-8 (including the B, K, S, and J) appear to be enjoying greater success with the Chinese military than the Z-8A. The Chinese army is also using the new Z-18 transport helicopter, which is the successor to the Z-8.
The Z-8B is another utility and transport version used by the Chinese army.
Z-8F is the utility version. It is used for search and rescue, utility and transportation missions. Equipped with Canadian Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67B tubroshaft engine.
The Z-8K is an upgraded version of the Chinese navy, used for search and rescue. It was reportedly developed from the Z-8F. Equipped with FLIR tower, spotlight, hoist and beacon dispenser. Deliveries began in 2007. The Chinese army is reported to have acquired dozens of Z-8K series helicopters.
The Z-8KA is another Chinese naval version.
The Z-8KH is used by the Chinese army.
The Z-8S is an upgraded version of the naval search and rescue. It was equipped with upgraded avionics, spotlights, and a FLIR turret. This aircraft made its first flight in 2004.
The Z-8J is a naval helicopter.
The Z-8JA is another naval variant. In an emergency, this helicopter can land on water. Currently in service with the Chinese navy.
The Z-8JH is another naval search and rescue variant, equipped with medical evacuation equipment. Currently in service with the Chinese navy.
The Z-18 is an improved version of the Z-8. It is based on the Z-8 design, but has a redesigned fuselage and more powerful engines. It has more internal space and can carry more payload. Also has better overall performance. It was first revealed to the public in 2014 and is currently being produced in large numbers. The Z-18 will gradually replace the older Z-8 series helicopters.
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| Z-8 |
