France has placed an order for Saab’s GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system, following a declaration of intent signed in June 2025.
The deal covers two GlobalEye aircraft, ground equipment, training, and support under a contract valued at 12.3 billion Swedish kronor ($1.3 billion). It also includes an option for two additional aircraft.
Deliveries are scheduled from 2029 to 2032.
“Today’s order underscores the robust partnership between Saab and France. By selecting GlobalEye, France is investing in a highly modern and capable Airborne Early Warning & Control solution,” said Saab President and CEO Micael Johansson.
The GlobalEye radar surveillance aircraft is also being acquired by Sweden for its air force, while a fleet of five is already in service with the UAE, the system’s first export customer.
In addition, Saab pitched the GlobalEye to NATO as a potential replacement for the alliance’s aging E-3 airborne warning and control systems.
Multi-Domain Eye in the Sky
The GlobalEye is based on the Bombardier Global 6000/6500 business jet, with a maximum takeoff weight of 99,500 pounds (45,132 kilograms).
It integrates a multi-domain sensor suite, including the Erieye Extended Range radar, an automatic identification system, and an electro-optical sensor.
According to Saab, GlobalEye features an instrumented range of above 350 nautical miles (403 miles/648 kilometers) and an endurance of over 11 hours.
Once delivered, the GlobalEye AEW&C aircraft are set to replace France’s aging fleet of E-3F Sentry aircraft — militarized versions of the Boeing 707 airliner — which entered service in 1991 and are due to retire in the 2030s.
