Saab delivers third GlobalEye while next to score new orders

Saab GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft.

On February 20, 2021, Saab delivered the third GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft to the United Arab Emirates. This follows Saab's previous deliveries of the platform in April and September 2020. The United Arab Emirates has ordered a total of five GlobalEye aircraft.

“Completing three deliveries of a solution as advanced as GlobalEye in less than a year proves Saab’s solid expertise as a provider of high-technology solutions and our focus on meeting our commitments, especially given the current circumstances. By handling the entire process, including sensor development and integration, we are uniquely in control of every critical part of this complex programme”, says Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab.

In addition to the United Arab Emirates, the aircraft could have new users soon. According to a recent statement by Peter Hultqvist, Swedish Defense Minister, Sweden is targeting the GlobalEye to replace the older Saab 340 AEW&C aircraft, known as S100D Argus, in the Swedish Air Force fleet. However, the choice has not yet been made, it will be finalized between 2021 and 2025. Furthermore, Saab aims to sell the aircraft to Finland together with the Gripen E fighter as part of the HX program.

GlobalEye is Saab’s latest airborne early warning and control solution. It combines Saab’s Erieye Extended Range Radar and a range of additional advanced sensors with the ultra-long range Global 6000 aircraft from Bombardier.

Written by Matteo Sanzani

Source, Image: Saab