The Hong Kong-based Government Flying Service (GFS) has ordered seven Airbus H175 helicopters, becoming the world's leading customer for the new-generation super-medium-sized rotorcraft, Airbus Helicopters said on Tuesday.

Three will be delivered by the end of 2017 and the other four a year later.

The public service configuration of the chopper offers multi-role capabilities, enabling speedy and seamless transformation based on mission requirements.

They can handle missions including search and rescue, emergency medical services, fire fighting, law enforcement and land or maritime border security patrols.

The H175s for the GFS will have an inbuilt electro-optical system for observation and tracking, together with an enhanced digital map display, both managed from an operator's console in the cabin.

Other equipment includes dual hoists, loud-speakers, a searchlight and steerable external lighting, Airbus said.

"The H175 ticks all the right boxes for our mission requirements," said Michael Chan, controller of the GFS. "We are confident that the addition of the H175s to our fleet will enhance our capabilities to serve the local community inshore and out at sea".