Paris Air Show: France signals its intent to purchase Saab’s GlobalEye
June 19, 2025
France has formally announced its intention to acquire Saab’s GlobalEye Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft.
The French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) signed a declaration of intent with Saab during Paris Air Show on Wednesday 18 June. The declaration outlines plans to procure two GlobalEye aircraft, with options for an additional two.
While Saab welcomed France’s announcement about its intention to procure GlobalEye, it also stated it has not yet entered in a contract and has not yet received an order from France. The DGA has however stated a contract should be finalised in the coming months.
Based on the Bombardier Global 6000/6500 aircraft family, the GlobalEye is an advanced multi-domain AEW&C solution. It combines the Swedish defence and security company’s Erieye Extended Range radar with an advanced suit of sensors and a multi-domain Command and Control (C2) system.
The aircraft is designed to provide long-range detection and identification of objects in the air, at sea and over land. “The solution will enable France to maintain full sovereign control of its airborne early warning and control capability,” said Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab, commenting on the declaration.
The signing in Paris on Wednesday builds on a roadmap signing between the French and Swedish governments to develop aerial surveillance capabilities. Wednesday also saw Saab sign a framework agreement with the French aircraft maintenance and modification provider Sabena technics relating to aircraft modification work for the GlobalEye.
