Harbin Z-9 Haitun

Harbin Z-9 Haitun

Type: helicopter

Domain: air

Country of Origin: China

Manufacturer: AVIC (Aviation Industry Corporation of China)

First Deployed: 1994

Overview

Chinese utility helicopter providing Bolivian armed forces with rotary-wing capability for operations across challenging terrain. Bolivia procured Z-9 Haitun (Chinese license-production of French Dauphin) from China. Features capacity for 10 passengers or cargo, high-altitude performance critical for Andean operations, weapons capability, relatively affordable compared to Western alternatives. Employed for troop transport, medical evacuation, reconnaissance, counter-narcotics operations, disaster relief. Chinese technology based on proven French design. However, Chinese support and spare parts potentially problematic given distance. Represents Bolivian defense cooperation with China pursuing affordable equipment. Critical for Bolivian operations across diverse terrain from Amazon lowlands to high Andes. Symbolizes Chinese military exports to Latin America offering alternatives to traditional US and European suppliers.

Technical Specifications

range900 km
engines2x Turbomeca Arriel 1C1 turboshaft
based_onLicense-built Eurocopter AS365 Dauphin
capacity2 crew + 10 passengers or 1,900 kg cargo
max_speed305 km/h

Operators

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