France has taken a significant step to modernize its airborne early warning and control capabilities by placing an official order for the GlobalEye AEW&C system developed by Saab. The procurement follows a declaration of intent signed in June 2025 and covers two GlobalEye aircraft along with ground equipment, comprehensive training, and long-term support services.

Valued at 12.3 billion Swedish krona—approximately $1.3 billion—the contract also includes an option for France to acquire two additional GlobalEye aircraft in the future. Deliveries are scheduled to take place between 2029 and 2032. Saab President and CEO Micael Johansson stated that the order highlights the strong partnership between Saab and France, noting that GlobalEye represents one of the most modern and capable AEW&C solutions currently available.

The GlobalEye platform is based on the Bombardier Global 6000/6500 business jet and is designed to deliver multi-domain situational awareness. It integrates an advanced sensor suite that includes the Erieye Extended Range active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, an automatic identification system (AIS) for maritime surveillance, and electro-optical sensors. According to Saab, the aircraft offers an instrumented detection range exceeding 350 nautical miles and an endurance of more than 11 hours.

Once operational, the GlobalEye aircraft will replace France’s aging E-3F Sentry fleet, which entered service in 1991 and is expected to retire during the 2030s. Beyond France, the GlobalEye system is already in service with the United Arab Emirates, its first export customer, and has also been ordered by Sweden for its air force. Saab has additionally proposed GlobalEye to NATO as a potential successor to the alliance’s aging E-3 AWACS fleet, positioning the platform as a next-generation solution for collective air and maritime surveillance.