The Netherlands has signed a letter of intent with Sweden to acquire a Saab GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, as the country looks beyond the aging multinational Boeing E – 3A Sentry fleet that currently monitors NATO airspace.
The country is among 11 NATO members that have announced plans to jointly acquire up to 10 GlobalEye aircraft, based on Canadian – made Bombardier Global 6500 business jets.
Amsterdam had earlier planned to acquire six Boeing E – 7 Wedgetail AEW&C aircraft, but scrapped the program after the US abandoned its own E – 7 procurement plans in favor of space – based monitoring.
Procured in the early 1980s, NATO’s E-3A Sentry fleet is scheduled to retire in 2035. In addition to their age, the aircraft’s high noise levels have caused discomfort among residents living near their operating bases.
The shift to GlobalEye also reflects a Dutch push to invest more heavily in the European defense industry following the US withdrawal from the E – 7 program.
“We welcome today’s announcement by the Netherlands of its intention to procure GlobalEye,” Saab President and CEO Micael Johansson said.
“The system will provide enhanced situational awareness and early warning capabilities across multiple domains, while also strengthening NATO’s ability to operate in an increasingly complex security environment.
“GlobalEye will enable the Netherlands to detect threats earlier, respond faster, and strengthen both national and collective defence. We stand ready to support this capability with Swedish innovation and expertise.”
GlobalEye
GlobalEye is Saab’s multi – domain AEW&C aircraft, combining the Erieye Extended Range (ER) radar with maritime and ground – surveillance radars, electro – optical sensors, and electronic intelligence systems.
The Erieye ER provides long – range detection and tracking of airborne targets, including smaller and low – signature threats, while dedicated sensors monitor ground movements and maritime activity. Data from these systems is fused into a real – time operational picture that can be shared with allied forces through secure data links.
The aircraft’s sensors can operate in challenging weather, cluttered environments, and under electronic interference, providing commanders with information on contacts ranging from aircraft and moving ground vehicles to small vessels.
GlobalEye has been selected by the UAE, Sweden, and France. The UAE has ordered five aircraft, Sweden three, and France two, with an option for two additional aircraft. France is scheduled to receive its aircraft between 2029 and 2032.
- The Defense Post