Canada is currently in talks with Saab regarding the potential purchase of its GlobalEye airborne early warning aircraft, as announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney. The revelation was made during the commencement of the annual arms trade show CANSEC in Ottawa. Carney emphasized the significance of the advanced sensors and mission systems of the GlobalEye in assisting the Canadian Armed Forces in identifying and deterring threats in the Arctic region. He highlighted that this acquisition would enhance Canadian strategic autonomy, boost job creation within the country, and solidify Canada’s global leadership position.
The GlobalEye system is integrated into a Bombardier 6500 executive jet, equipped with Saab radar and sensors, and is produced at Saab’s Toronto plant. The Canadian air force had initially planned to procure up to six early warning aircraft for operations both domestically and internationally, with a particular focus on enhancing surveillance capabilities in the Arctic region. These aircraft have the capability to track objects, whether on land, sea, or in the air, from distances of up to 650 kilometers.
Saab’s proposal for surveillance aircraft, including the GlobalEye, was presented alongside its offer to supply Gripen-E fighter jets to Canada, with a commitment to technology transfer to enable local manufacturing of both aircraft types. Carney did not provide details on whether Canada would proceed with the Gripen purchase, potentially impacting the acquisition of American-made F-35 jets, a decision that has been under evaluation for over a year. The GlobalEye faced competition from the U.S.-manufactured Boeing E-7 Wedgetail and the L3Harris Aeris X. Notably, NATO is seriously considering the GlobalEye as a candidate to replace its aging fleet of Boeing E-3 Sentry airborne early warning aircraft.