GlobalEye for France

On 30 December 2025, Saab entered into a contract with the Direction générale de l’Armement (DGA, French General Directorate of Armaments) to supply two GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, including ground equipment, training, and support.

The order value is approximately USD 1,3 billion (SEK 12,3 billion), with deliveries scheduled between 2029 and 2032. The contract also includes an option for the DGA to purchase two additional aircraft.

The GlobalEye aircraft are intended to replace the ageing Boeing E-3F Sentry AWACS fleet of the Armée de l’Air et de l’Espace (AAE, French Air and Space Force), which has been in service since the early 1990s. These platforms are expected to retire in the early 2030s, and GlobalEye represents a modern and more capable successor for airborne command, control, and surveillance missions.

The procurement also reflects deeper industrial cooperation with French partners. Saab has established agreements, including with Sabena technics, to support aircraft modification and maintenance activities in France, ensuring local industry participation.

France had previously announced its intention to acquire the Saab GlobalEye AEW&C system during the Paris Air Show in June 2025.

Credit photo: wanglp1988 (via jetphotos.com)