Saab strengthens the UAE's military readiness with airborne and ground-based systems at IDEX 2025.

At IDEX 2025, the Swedish company Saab is presenting its defense and security technologies, including systems developed in the UAE. Saab has been active in the UAE defense sector for over 30 years, working with the UAE government and industry to develop locally produced systems. According to Heléne Bittmann, Saab’s UAE Managing Director, the company is expanding its operations in the region and strengthening existing partnerships. IDEX 2025 provides a platform for Saab to engage with customers, stakeholders, and industry representatives.
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The United Arab Emirates (UAE) currently operates five GlobalEye aircraft, acquired between 2020 and 2024 under a contract valued at approximately 23 billion SEK ($2.14 billion). (Picture source: Saab)

Among the systems on display is the GlobalEye, a multi-role airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) system based on the Bombardier Global 6000/6500 business jet. The system integrates Saab’s Erieye Extended Range (ER) radar, capable of detecting and tracking air, sea, and land targets at ranges exceeding 550 km when operating at high altitudes. It includes Leonardo's Seaspray 7500E maritime surveillance radar, an electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor, and a command-and-control suite with multiple operator stations. The GlobalEye is equipped with a self-protection system that includes radar and laser warning receivers, countermeasure dispensers, and electronic warfare capabilities. It has an endurance of over 11 hours and transmits surveillance data to ground-based stations for real-time monitoring of multiple domains.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) operates five GlobalEye aircraft, acquired between 2020 and 2024 under a contract valued at approximately 23 billion SEK ($2.14 billion). Sweden has ordered three GlobalEye aircraft, with deliveries expected from 2027, replacing its Saab 340 AEW&C fleet. Several other countries, including Canada, Finland, Denmark, France, Greece, and South Korea, have shown interest in the system. Canada is evaluating AEW&C solutions, with the GlobalEye being considered alongside the Boeing E-7 Wedgetail. Sweden, Finland, and Denmark have discussed a possible joint procurement. France and Greece are assessing the system for their airborne surveillance requirements. South Korea has signed an industrial cooperation agreement with Saab for AEW&C development.

Saab is also presenting the DeployNet, a ruggedized 5G/LTE network developed in cooperation with the UAE’s Tawazun Council. The system provides secure, high-capacity wireless communication, supporting up to 10,000 users and covering areas of up to 100 km² per system. DeployNet is designed for real-time data transfer, high-resolution video streaming, and push-to-talk communication, while incorporating cybersecurity measures. It is MIL-STD compliant and designed for rapid deployment in military, emergency response, and remote operations.

Additionally, Saab is displaying two variants of the Giraffe radar system, including the Giraffe 1X, a 3D radar system designed for ground-based air defense (GBAD), counter-drone operations, and counter-artillery, rocket, and mortar (C-RAM) applications. It weighs under 150 kg, allowing for integration into mobile, deployable, or fixed installations. The radar provides continuous 360-degree air surveillance, detecting low, slow, and small (LSS) targets, including mini-UAVs, while minimizing false alarms. The Giraffe 1X operates with a rapid refresh rate, delivers engagement-quality target data, and has low power consumption, enabling deployment on vehicles, buildings, or masts. The system performs simultaneous air surveillance, GBAD target acquisition, and drone detection.

The Giraffe 4A is a long-range, multifunctional AESA radar for air surveillance, ground-based air defense, and weapon locating. It has a detection range of up to 400 km, capable of tracking aircraft, supersonic missiles, UAVs, and artillery projectiles while providing real-time situational awareness. The radar operates in both 360-degree and sector scan modes, allowing for high-frequency updates. It is available as a mobile or fixed system and incorporates gallium nitride (GaN) technology for high reliability with minimal maintenance. The Giraffe 4A also supports counter-battery fire by detecting and tracking enemy artillery positions and impact points.

Saab has been active in the UAE since the 1980s and established a facility in Abu Dhabi’s Tawazun Industrial Park in 2018. This facility focuses on research, development, and production of defense and security systems. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of Saab AB and contributes to the local supply chain and workforce development. Saab is headquartered in Sweden and operates worldwide in aeronautics, weapons, command and control, sensors, and underwater systems. It employs 24,000 personnel and supports the defense capabilities of multiple nations.