Paris Air ShowFrance announces intent to acquire Saab’s GlobalEye
Saab and the DGA (Direction Générale de l’Armement), the French defense procurement agency, signed a joint declaration of intent on Wednesday at the Paris Air Show regarding the potential acquisition of the GlobalEye airborne early warning and control aircraft by France.
The GlobalEye is an AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning and Control) aircraft developed by Saab, and the offer includes ground equipment, training, and technical support.
The declaration outlines France’s intention to acquire two GlobalEye aircraft, with an option for two additional units, all based on the Bombardier Global 6000/6500 business jet platform.
According to Saab, the GlobalEye is an advanced AEW&C solution equipped with a range of active and passive sensors, including synthetic aperture radar, enabling the detection and identification of targets over long distances – in the air, at sea, and on land. The system provides real-time intelligence to air, land, and naval forces.
Saab’s GlobalEye allows for enhanced situational awareness and early detection of long-range threats.
“We welcome today’s announcement by France about the intention to procure GlobalEye, which will enhance the French Armed Forces’ situational awareness and threat detection across the air, land and sea domains. Our solution will enable France to maintain full sovereign control of its airborne early warning and control capability,” said Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab.
Long-term cooperation agreement
In parallel with the declaration signed with the DGA, Saab also entered into a long-term cooperation agreement with Sabena Technics, a French provider of aircraft maintenance and modification services.
The goal is to support the modification of the GlobalEye aircraft to meet the operational requirements of the French Armed Forces.
According to Saab, the agreement aims to “form the basis for future business between the companies, covering complex aircraft modifications and related services for the GlobalEye program.”
By acquiring the GlobalEye, France plans to replace its aging Boeing E-3 Sentry AWACS, seeking a European solution for both national and NATO needs.
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