UAE orders new Functionality for its GlobalEye AEW&C aircraft fleet.

Saab has received an order from the United Arab Emirates for additional functionality for the advanced airborne early warning & control (AEW&C) solution GlobalEye. The order value is approximately SEK 345 million (USD 39,15 million).  The UAE placed its first order for GlobalEye in November 2015. GlobalEye combines air, maritime and ground surveillance in one swing-role solution. It features a full suite of sophisticated sensors including the powerful new extended range radar (Erieye ER).

Saab GlobalEye AEW&C aircraft during flight test campaign
(Credit: Saab)

“GlobalEye is the most advanced airborne early warning & control solution on the market and the programme is progressing very well, with the first flight completed in March this year. This order is further testament to our successful collaboration with the UAE”, says Anders Carp, head of Saab business area Surveillance.

GlobalEye brings extended detection range, endurance and the ability to perform multiple roles, including tasks such as search and rescue, border surveillance and military operations.

Saab is currently producing the GlobalEye AEW&C, combining air, maritime and ground surveillance in one single solution. GlobalEye combines a full suite of sophisticated sensors including the powerful new extended range radar (Erieye ER), with the ultra-long range Global 6000 jet aircraft. According to Saab, the Erieye ER gives the aircraft a 70% increase of the detection range (about 650 km) compared to the previous version. The radar provides wide-area moving target indication (GMTI) as well as improved performance against small targets such as stealth aircraft, unmanned aircraft, cruise missiles or submarine periscopes.

Other major sensors include the Leonardo's Seaspray 7500E AESA search radar, providing the aircraft with a maritime surveillance role within a detection range of approximately 400 km. it also incorporates a FLIR Star Safire EO/IR gimbal, automatic identification system, IFF/ADS-B, and a wide range of communication systems, including undisclosed satcoms.