The first fuselage of the advanced medium-sized multi-purpose Z15 helicopter, jointly developed by China and France, was delivered at Harbin Aircraft Industry (Group) Co. on November 15.
The fuselage will be sent to the France-based Eurocopter for general assembly and related experiments. The virgin flight is expected to take place by the end of 2009.
The main function of the Z15 helicopter, which can carry 14 to 16 passengers, includes transporting operational staff to and from offshore oil platforms, long-voyage search and rescue, homeland security and emergency medical rescues.
There are no 6 to 7 ton helicopters in the product portfolios of Chinese and European helicopter companies, and few helicopters of this type on the international market. The research and development of Z15 helicopters targets the international market and fills a gap in the market for this type of helicopter in China.
During the recent China Airshow in Zhuhai, the full size model of the Z15 helicopter officially made its debut and was highly praised and well received. On the opening day alone, five tentative orders were taken for the helicopters.
By People's Daily Online
|
Comment
Tell A Friend
Print Format
Save Article