France has confirmed an order for two Saab GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, marking a major step in modernising its airborne surveillance capabilities. The contract, signed between Saab and France’s defence procurement agency, the Direction générale de l’Armement (DGA), is valued at approximately SEK 12.3 billion (around USD 1.3 billion).
The agreement was first outlined during the Paris Air Show in June and makes France the second international customer for the GlobalEye platform, following the United Arab Emirates, which operates a fleet of five aircraft. The contract also includes ground systems, training, and long-term support, with an option for France to acquire two additional aircraft.
Deliveries are scheduled between 2029 and 2032, according to Saab. The GlobalEye aircraft will gradually replace the French Air Force’s ageing Boeing E-3F Sentry fleet, which entered service in the early 1990s and is expected to retire during the next decade.
“Today’s order underscores the robust partnership between Saab and France,” said Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab. “By selecting GlobalEye, France is investing in a highly modern and capable Airborne Early Warning and Control solution. This decision strengthens national sovereignty and contributes to Europe’s overall security.”
GlobalEye is based on the Bombardier Global 6000/6500 business jet platform, offering significantly lower operating costs and greater flexibility compared with legacy airborne warning aircraft. Despite its smaller size, the platform integrates Saab’s Erieye Extended Range radar and a suite of active and passive sensors capable of detecting and tracking targets across air, sea, and land domains.
The aircraft provides real-time situational awareness to air, land, and naval forces, enabling early threat detection and improved operational decision-making. Saab has also positioned GlobalEye as a potential solution for NATO customers seeking alternatives following the cancellation of the alliance’s E-7 Wedgetail programme.