France Orders Saab GlobalEye Surveillance Aircraft in $1.3B AEW&C Deal
France has signed a contract with Swedish defense firm Saab to acquire two Saab GlobalEye surveillance aircraft, a move that will modernize its airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) capabilities.
The agreement, valued at approximately SEK 12.3 billion (around $1.3 billion), includes aircraft, related ground equipment, crew training and support, with deliveries scheduled between 2029 and 2032. The French Direction Générale de l’Armement (DGA) also retains an option to procure two additional GlobalEye platforms under the terms of the contract.
Strategic Surveillance Upgrade
The acquisition of Saab GlobalEye surveillance aircraft marks a key step in replacing France’s aging Boeing E-3F Sentry AEW&C fleet. The GlobalEye platform integrates long-range multi-domain sensors capable of air, maritime and ground surveillance, providing enhanced situational awareness for joint operations across domains.
Multi-Domain Capability and Interoperability
GlobalEye combines Saab’s Erieye Extended Range radar with additional sensor systems on a modified Bombardier airframe, delivering extended detection range and persistent airborne surveillance. The aircraft’s mission suite supports real-time information sharing, critical for modern integrated air defense and joint force operations.
Delivery Timeline and Industrial Impacts
Under the current schedule, deliveries of the two contracted aircraft will occur from 2029 to 2032. The option to acquire an additional pair provides flexibility for future force structure planning and alignment with evolving defense requirements in France and NATO.
The contract builds on a joint declaration of intent signed earlier in 2025 at the Paris Air Show, where the DGA signaled France’s intent to procure the GlobalEye AEW&C solution.
Significance for European Air Surveillance
France’s decision to select the Saab GlobalEye reinforces growing European demand for advanced airborne surveillance platforms. With existing GlobalEye operators such as the United Arab Emirates and Sweden, Saab’s AEW&C solution continues to gain traction amid modernization drives across allied air forces.
