China military build-up: Navy tests powerful helicopter on warships

China’s navy is aiming to boost the combat capability of its warships by deploying a new version of a powerful helicopter.

A ship-based version of the Z-20 helicopter has been seen on the rear deck of a large vessel, reports the South China Morning Post.

Images of the aircraft on the rear deck of what is believed to have been the advanced guided-missile destroyer Nanchang were shown in Chinese media.

The Z-20 first flew in 2013 and was designed to carry out a variety of roles for the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force.

The photos appear to show a maritime model of the helicopter with retractable rotor blades and tail which would enable it to fit in the limited space of a warship hangar.

And its position on the deck suggest its rear wheels have been adapted for a ship-board landing.

Hong Kong security analyst Song Zhongping said the photos apparently showed the helicopter was being tested for use in maritime operations.

He said an operational naval version of the Z-20 would fill “a big gap” in China’s expanding navy.

“The PLA Navy has had a shortage of home-grown ship-borne helicopters for a long time,” Song said.

“When it’s ready, the Z-20 could fill a big gap.”

Currently China’s new generation of warships lack an advanced ship-based helicopter, substantially weakening the vessels’ anti-submarine capabilities.

But Song said the Z-20 was a “perfect size” for guide missile destroyers such as the Nanchang.

The helicopter’s long range, advanced electronic systems and good manoeuvrability made it suitable for many uses.

It could be adapted for anti-submarine patrols, anti-ship and early warning missions as well as search-and-rescue roles, Song said.