Chinese newest helicopter Z-20 close contact with civilian boat in South China Sea, latest video

New video emerged online showing a Chinese Z-20 naval helicopter flying over South China Sea.

This new generation Chinese developed helicopter appears to be approaching a civilian boat.

It stayed for a while, then left. This Z-20 could be using the boat to perform a practice run.

The aircraft marked "6213" carries two large size external pods below pylons, could be fuel tanks.

The naval variant of Z-20 helicopters have been stationed in Hainan Island, next to South China Sea, mainly in Shanya city.

Z-20 closely resembles the U.S. Sea Hawk helicopters. 3 different Z-20 naval variants have surfaced.

Z-20 naval variants are based on army variant, but with major changes to better suit naval operations.

It would also be a key aircraft deployed to Chinese aircraft carriers, including the latest Type 003 carrier.

This photo shows a base model Z-20 naval variant, an optical sensor suite can be spotted below cockpit.

The second model has a large size radar dome below its nose, similar to Sea Hawk and EH-101. This model is likely carrying more equipments to process and transfer radar data.

The third model is likely an assault variant to perform amphibious or anti-ship missions. This model can carry up to 8 AKD-10 anti-tank missiles, the same weapon Z-10 attack helicopter carries.

One key difference between Z-20 and U.S Sea Hawk is that Z-20 has an European style five-bladed rotor. Z-20 has a unique 2-piece large windshield, a slightly different tail design, and slimline body curves.

The Z-20 has a two-man crew, and capable of carrying 5 ton, or transporting 12 to 15 armed soldiers. And Z-20 is a key part of the newly established Air Assault Brigade of Chinese Army.

And Z-20 has much better high altitude flight capability, making it ideal for Xinjiang and Tibet areas.

It will work with Z-10 and Z-19 attack helicopters, Z-8 family large-size helicopters in Chinese Army.

Z-20 units have been deployed close to Indian border to provide better support to Army border forces.

In 2011, Chinese Army only has around 200 Mi-17 and Z-8 helicopters, and less than 150 attack helicopters. Now army’s aviation corps has over 400 Mi-17s, Z-8s and new Z-20s, plus around 500 attack helicopters.

The number is only one third of what the U.S. Army possesses, but China is fast building up the force.

The air-assault brigade will provide modern ground and air assault coordinations. At the same time, Chinese navy amphibious fleet is coming into shape, also featured Z-20 helicopters.

Photo and video: Wiki common, Norinco website, Weibo Junwuguanchasao, Weibo QiuQiuQ30, Weibo tankezhuangjiacheliang

Видео Chinese newest helicopter Z-20 close contact with civilian boat in South China Sea, latest video канала Chinese Forces