Sweden Orders Third GlobalEye AEW&C Aircraft from Saab.

On June 27, 2024, Saab announced that it had signed a contract with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) for the delivery of a third GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft. This order, valued at approximately SEK 2.6 billion (USD 244 million), is based on an option included in a previous contract from June 2022. The initial contract covered the purchase of two GlobalEye aircraft with options for two additional units, which have now been exercised with this latest order.
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Known as the S 106 in Sweden, the GlobalEye AEW&C is a multi-domain surveillance solution designed to provide long-range detection and identification of objects in the air, at sea, and on land (Picture source: Saab)

The delivery of the third GlobalEye aircraft is scheduled between 2024 and 2029. Known as the S 106 in Sweden, the GlobalEye AEW&C is a multi-domain surveillance solution designed to provide long-range detection and identification of objects in the air, at sea, and on land. It combines Saab’s Erieye Extended Range radar with a suite of advanced active and passive sensors, enabling comprehensive situational awareness and early threat detection in real-time. The GlobalEye system is based on the Bombardier Global 6000/6500 aircraft platform, which offers significant endurance, operational flexibility, and advanced avionics, making it well-suited for special missions.

Production of the GlobalEye began after its development, with the first contracts signed in the late 2010s. The aircraft has been progressively acquired by several nations, with significant orders from the United Arab Emirates and Sweden. Saab’s latest contract with the FMV for the third GlobalEye aircraft continues to build on this success. The first GlobalEye aircraft entered service in the early 2020s, providing advanced surveillance capabilities to its operators.

 By mid-2024, Saab had delivered several units to the United Arab Emirates, marking an important milestone in the program's operational deployment. The Swedish Air Force will also integrate the GlobalEye, designated as the S 106, enhancing its multi-domain surveillance capabilities. The aircraft's mission flexibility and ability to operate in peace, crisis, and war make it a strategic asset for national security and defense.

Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab, expressed pride in contributing to Sweden's defense capabilities, emphasizing the unique situational awareness and early threat detection provided by the GlobalEye. This contract underscores Sweden’s commitment to advancing its defense technologies and maintaining robust surveillance and control capabilities across multiple domains.