Saab has secured a $244.1 million contract from the Swedish government to deliver the country’s third GlobalEye airborne early warning and control aircraft. The platform combines the S band Erieye Extended Range radar and mission system with Bombardier’s Global 6000 jet aircraft to provide an AEW&C solution that supports long-range detection and identification of objects.
According to the company’s agreement with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration, the surveillance aircraft will be delivered between 2024 and 2029.
The latest order from Sweden is based on an existing contract to purchase two GlobalEye AEW&Cs that the European country is expected to receive in 2027. The $687 million deal signed in June 2022 includes options for two additional units, meaning FMV is poised for another aircraft purchase in the future.
Saab President and CEO Micael Johansson said the new deal allows the company’s continued support to national defense.
“We are proud to contribute to Sweden’s defense with another GlobalEye aircraft, which will provide unique situational awareness of the surroundings as well the capability of early detection and warning of potential threats in the air, at sea, or on land,” the chief executive said in a statement.
According to Shephard Media, the United Arab Emirates is the only country currently operating the aircraft, although Poland will reportedly buy the platform to reduce its reliance on NATO’s early warning capabilities.
