NATO eyes Saab GlobalEye to replace AWACS planes in historic shift from the U.S.

6 hours ago

NATO considers Swedish Saab GlobalEye to replace 14 aging Boeing E-3 AWACS, signaling a strategic shift away from U.S.-built systems.
GlobalEye offers advanced AESA radar, multi-domain sensing, long endurance, and lower operating costs compared to E-3 and Boeing E-7 Wedgetail.
Reports from April 2026 indicate NATO's interest, following U.S. withdrawal from E-7 program and a relaunched competitive process.
GlobalEye uses Saab's Erieye ER radar on Bombardier Global business jets, reducing crew needs and enhancing coverage and survivability.
Selection influenced by cost (unit price around €550 million), European industrial cooperation, and reduced dependency on U.S. defense systems.
NATO's AWACS replacement involves multiple countries sharing costs, with Germany expected to cover about one-third of the program.
Decision reflects broader trends in NATO interoperability, distributed ISR networks, and alignment of European and Canadian defense policies.

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