Airbus Helicopters has delivered the first two of 15 lightweight multi-role H145M helicopters to the German military.

The Bundeswehr H15M is the military variant of Airbus Helicopters' civilian H145.

The aircraft weighs approximately 3.7 tons, and is designed for military operations including utility, reconnaissance, search and rescue, armed scout, and medical evacuation missions.

Airbus Helicopters Chief Executive Officer Wolfgang Schoder says the helicopter's technologies are a good fit for the security needs of the German military.

"With its cutting-edge technologies, outstanding performance and true multi-role capabilities, the H145M answers to the challenging demands of our military customers in today's missions," Schoder said in a statement.

"We are very proud to hand over these aircraft on time and on budget. From contact signature to first delivery in just two years, this project is a benchmark of efficient cooperation between Bundeswehr, authorities and industry."

The helicopters are to be used by the Kommando Spezialkrafte, or KSK, also known as the German Army's Special Forces.

The aircraft comes equipped with a mission computer, an infrared/TV electro-optical system, and a laser range-finder to assist in tactical surveillance operations.

The H145M is armed with 7- and 12-tube rocket launchers, a 20mm cannon pod, 12.7mm machine gun pod and air-to-ground missiles.

Airbus says the aircraft has growth potential to equip laser-guided rockets to bolster its light attack capabilities.