Harbin Z-19 Black Whirlwind

Harbin Aircraft Manufacturing Corporation (HAMC) · China · first flew 2011 · helicopter

The Harbin Z-19 (Black Whirlwind) is a Chinese light reconnaissance and attack helicopter developed from the Z-9 (Dauphin derivative), featuring a narrow tandem-cockpit fuselage and a fenestron shrouded tail rotor. It serves the PLA Army Aviation Corps in the armed reconnaissance role.

Recognition (WEFT)

WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.

Spot it by:

• Chinese light attack and reconnaissance helicopter in tandem cockpit
• Fenestron-style shrouded tail rotor
• Narrow fuselage with stepped tandem seating for crew of two

Distinguish from the Z-10 by the much narrower, lighter fuselage and the fenestron tail; the tandem stepped cockpits and stub weapon pylons are shared with attack helicopter convention.

Specifications

• The Harbin Z-19 Black Whirlwind has a length of 12 m (39 ft).
• It has a wingspan of 9.6 m (31 ft).
• Its maximum speed is 280 km/h (174 mph).
• Typical crew: 2.

Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.

History

HAMC developed the Z-19 to give the PLA a dedicated armed reconnaissance helicopter lighter and more agile than the larger Z-10 attack type. The design uses the Z-9's rotor and dynamic systems but wraps them in a new purpose-built attack fuselage. The Z-19 entered PLA service around 2011–2012 and has been observed in combat exercises alongside Z-10s.

Variants

The Z-19E is an export variant offered for international customers.

Where you'll see it

In service with the PLA Army Aviation Corps; the Z-19E has been marketed internationally but export sales are limited.

Related aircraft

• AS350B3e Écureuil
• Leonardo AW189
• TAI/Leonardo T129 ATAK
• AW101 Merlin HM.2

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