The French government has officially confirmed the acquisition of two GlobalEye airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft from Sweden, under a contract signed between the Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) and Saab and announced on December 30, 2025. Valued at approximately US$1.3 billion, the agreement provides for the delivery of the platforms between 2029 and 2032, and includes ground equipment, training, and logistical support. An option for two additional aircraft is also included, which could expand the future fleet to be operated by the French Air and Space Force.
The decision responds to the need to replace the aging E-3F Sentry AEW&C aircraft, which have been in service since 1991 and have undergone multiple modernization programs, but whose Boeing 707-based platform faces increasing limitations in operating costs and technological adaptation due to its age.
The French Air and Space Force plans to retire these early warning aircraft definitively during the 2030s, making it essential to field a timely replacement capable of meeting the demands of the current strategic environment. In this regard, the signing of a Letter of Intent in June 2025 had already marked the formal start of the transition process, confirming France’s intention to move forward with negotiations that would ultimately lead to the selection and future introduction of the GlobalEye.
The GlobalEye, developed by Saab on the Bombardier Global 6000/6500 business jet platform, represents an advanced solution for air, maritime, and ground surveillance. It is currently being adopted by the Swedish Air Force as its new AEW&C platform to replace the Saab 340 AEW (also designated S 100B Argus), which were transferred to Ukraine.
The signing of the contract was celebrated in Sweden with the message “Welcome, France, to the GlobalEye family,” reflecting the strategic nature of the bilateral cooperation. Saab emphasized that the French decision promotes closer ties between the defense industries of both countries and strengthens European security as a whole. “Today’s order underscores the strong partnership between Saab and France. By selecting GlobalEye, France is investing in a highly modern and capable AEW&C solution. This choice reinforces France’s commitment to sovereignty and strengthens the overall protection of Europe, with Sweden and France operating GlobalEye,” said Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab.
*Photographs used for illustrative purposes.
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