Canada engages Saab as preferred supplier of future AEW&C capability
Press Release
Canada has announced that they will enter into detailed discussions and formal negotiations with Saab as the preferred supplier of Canada’s future AEW&C, enabled by Saab’s GlobalEye. At this point, Saab has not signed a contract nor received an order.
The announcement was made by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at CANSEC, Canada’s largest defence and security trade show.
Saab has offered to build, maintain and upgrade the Canadian GlobalEyes with a team of Canadian partners. The goal is to transfer knowledge and technology to Canada that will grow the domestic defence industry. Saab also plans to invest in research and development work in Canada, as part of the future programme.
"We welcome Canada's decision to enter into discussions with Saab as the preferred supplier of the future Canadian AEW&C capability. GlobalEye offers proven capability for the Royal Canadian Air Force, sovereign ownership for Canada and comprehensive and skilled work for Canadian industry”, says Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab.
Saab will now follow the next steps in the process with the Canadian authorities.
GlobalEye would allow Canada to monitor vast areas of land, sea and sky. Based on the Global 6500 aircraft from Bombardier, GlobalEye combines Saab’s Erieye Extended Range radar with an advanced suite of sensors and a multi-domain Command and Control (C2) system. GlobalEye detects targets by providing long-range and low-signature detection at a high-update frequency - from low observable, stealthy threats, to drones, ballistic and hypersonic missiles in high clutter and jamming environments.
Interesting move. Beyond procurement, this looks increasingly like a strategic signal about Canada’s evolving defence priorities, especially regarding Arctic surveillance, NATO commitments, and reducing capability gaps in early warning systems. The industrial partnership aspect will be just as important as the platform itself. Great breakdown.
Please tell me they're close to having an Air to Air refueling solution for these, preferably before the first is delivered.