France has finalized an order for two GlobalEye Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft from Saab, following the signing of a declaration of intent at the Paris Air Show earlier this year.
On December 31, 2025, Saab confirmed that the French General Directorate of Armament (DGA) had placed a $1.3 billion (SEK 12.3 billion) order for the surveillance aircraft, along with ground equipment, training and support.
The contract also includes an option for France to purchase two additional aircraft. Deliveries of the initial aircraft are to take place between 2029 and 2032.
“Today’s order underscores the robust partnership between Saab and France,” said Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab. “By selecting GlobalEye, France is investing in a highly modern and capable Airborne Early Warning & Control solution. This choice reinforces France’s commitment to sovereignty and strengthens Europe’s overall protection, with both Sweden and France operating GlobalEye.”
While there was no official comment from a French government representative, Sweden’s Minister of Defense, Pål Jonson, wrote on social media: “Warm welcome to the Global Eye family France! Advanced early warning and situational awareness are crucial in today’s threat environment. The Swedish defense industry is now strengthening Europe’s defense capability and security.”
He added: “France’s decision to procure 2 Global Eye aircraft will contribute to further deepening the defense cooperation between our countries and also the strategic defense materiel cooperation. It will also promote closer collaboration between the countries’ defense companies.”
According to Sweden’s Defense Minister, France hereby joins the United Arab Emirates, which operates five GlobalEye aircraft, and Sweden, which decided to acquire three units in 2022.
The GlobalEye, based on the Bombardier Global Express 6000 business jet, features the Erieye active electronically scanned array radar.
This radar can detect and track targets over a range of more than 550 kilometers (341 miles) and can perform early warning and control operations across air, sea and land domains.
The new aircraft will replace France’s aging fleet of E-3F Sentry AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) aircraft, in service with the French Air Force since 1991 and stationed at Avord Air Base 702.
The E-3F Sentry, an essential asset for detection, control, deterrence, protection, intervention, and command, has a detection range of 400 kilometers and can remain airborne for up to 12 hours.