Harbin Z-8

Harbin Z-8 History

The Harbin Z-8 is the French Aerospatiale SA321 "Super Frelon" medium multi-purpose helicopter in service in China. The Chinese took over a dozen or so units from France in the second half of the 1970s and squeezed them into anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and search and rescue (SAR) missions. As a result, they became the first Chinese helicopters capable of operating on mobile warships, greatly expanding the tactical value of their surface fleet.

In addition to stock received from French industry, the collection is produced locally under the Harbin brand label.

The civilian market version of the Z-8 is the 27-seat AC313, developed locally by AviCopter.

The basic Z-8 design incorporates three turboshaft engines to provide the required power, each producing 1,570 hp and providing a six-blade main rotor blade assembly and five-blade tail rotor assembly (port facing) power. The fuselage is deep, and the nose is partially covered with a framed windshield. The radar unit protrudes forward through a blister assembly on its nose. The helicopter relies on a retractable tricycle landing gear, with outboard windows acting as pontoons, enabling the helicopter to land on water for water rescue operations. The cabin includes side-by-side seating for two pilots, space for flight engineers and enough space for passengers, emergency equipment or hospital beds.

The cargo hold can also be used as a cargo hold, and the helicopter can be used for resupply at sea.

Harbin Z-8 Specification

BASICS

MANUFACTURING

ROLES

DIMENSIONS

WEIGHTS

POWER

PERFORMANCE

ARMAMENT

VARIANTS