Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first of two H145M multi-role battlefield utility helicopters to the government of the Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg.

The delivery was made on November 15 and the aircraft becomes the first H145 platform – civil or military – to operate in the country. Delivery of the second and final example is expected before the end of this year.

The country's new H145Ms will be based and maintained at Luxembourg Findel Airport and employed in tasks such as troop transport, search and rescue, reconnaissance, surveillance and medical evacuation.

Airbus H145M Luxembourg [Airbus]
Airbus Helicopters H145M D-HADU 'LX-FAA' during its delivery at Luxembourg Findel Airport. Airbus

Export orders for Airbus' H145M helicopters have gathered pace since the first examples were delivered to the German military in 2015. Since then, Hungary, Thailand and Serbia have placed orders for the aircraft. Airbus Helicopters boasts that in-service H145Ms have a mission readiness rate above 95%.

The H145M is equipped with advanced communication systems, high-performance camera, fast-roping system and hoist. It is able to operate round the clock in different weather conditions. Luxembourg's examples will have provisions to install a light armour protection kit. The aircraft is powered by a pair of Safran Arriel 2E turboshaft engines, giving it a cruising speed of 149mph (240km/h) and a range of 396 miles (638km) using standard fuel tanks.