"A new "general helicopter" in 10t class has been under development at 602/Changhe since late 90s. It was speculated to be based on American S-70C currently still in service with PLA but also shares some common features with Z-10, such as a five-blade main rotor and twin Canadian PT6C-76C engines. However the project was delayed by the development of high priority Z-10 attack helicopter. Similar to Z-10, the helicopter also suffered several setbacks due to certain technical/political obstacles, such as obtaining a suitable engine as well as developing a new transmission system (with Eurocopter assistance). The project (now designated as Z-20) finally gained full speed after Z-10 was put into production in 2010. The finalized design might borrow certain features from European NH-90 and be powered by more powerful WZ-10 turboshaft engines (1,800kw). The first prototype was rumored to have rolled down the assembly line in December 2012. First flight is expected in late 2013. Z-20 is projected to replace eventually the large number of Russian Mi-17 series in service with the Army Aviation. The latest images (August 2013) suggested a what could be a Z-20 prototype was being transported for static tests."
Posted on: Wed, 04 Sep 2013 14:29:13 +0000