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Air ForcesChina

Z-8S (Zhishengji-8S)

Naval search and rescue helicopterFielded 2004Pending verification
Air ForcesCHN
Identification silhouette. Not drawn to scale between entries.
Fact cardConfidence · Source
System
TypeNaval search and rescue helicopter
Date of introduction2004
ProliferationOrigin country only
ManufacturerSud Aviation AérospatialeMed[1]
Crew3Med[1]
Flight performance
Engine3 x Turbomeca Turmu IIIC Turboshaft EnginesMed[1]
Thrust / power1,570 hr each engineMed[1]
Range1,020 km634 mi · 551 nmiMed[1]
Service ceiling3,150 m10,335 ftMed[1]
Rate of climb401 meters per min; 6.66 m/sMed[1]
Endurance4 hoursMed[1]
Protection
NBC ProtectionYesMed[1]
Counter Measures (Chaff/Flares)YesMed[1]
Armament and payload
Hardpoints2 eaMed[1]
Wing Mounted WeaponsA naval SAR version, designated as the Z-8S, was outfitted with upgraded avionics, a searchlight, FLIR turret and a hoist,Med[1]
Fire control
SonobuoysAvailableMed[1]
Variants
Z-8AThe Z-8A is a military version of the original model Z-8 and is used for transportation.[1]
Z-8FThe Z-8F is an advance utility variant. The variant is used for search and rescue, general utility and logistics support missions. The Z-8F is installed with three Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-67B turboshaft engines.[1]
Z-8K/KAThe Z-8K is an enhanced version of Z-8F, built primarily to execute search and rescue missions. This variant is also fitted with forward looking infra-red (FLIR) sensors and a search light underneath the cockpit.[1]
Z-8JAThe Z-8JA is a ship-borne variant of Z-8. It is able to land on water. Z-8JA and Z-8JH are currently in service with PLANAF, executing transport and medical evacuation operations respectively.[1]
Summary

For ASW missions, the Z-8 is equipped with surface search radar and a French HS-12 dipping sonar while carrying a Whitehead A244S torpedo under the starboard side of the fuselage. The rotorcraft were also used to ferry supplies from replenishment ship to surface combatants, and transport marines from the landing ship to the shore.

Draft entry. Values come from the cited public sources and are awaiting editor verification.
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Operators
China
Sources
  1. Z-8S (Zhishengji-8S) Chinese Naval Search and Rescue Helicopter, U.S. Army TRADOC G-2 Worldwide Equipment Guide (ODIN)
    Published/updated 2026-03-20 · Tier 1 · checked 2026-10-10
Change log
  • 2026-10-10 Entry created from the Worldwide Equipment Guide (ODIN), bulk import