Saab Offers GlobalEye Surveillance Planes to Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Canada

Post by : Saif

Swedish defence manufacturer Saab AB has offered its GlobalEye surveillance planes to Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Canada as part of a push to expand sales of its military aircraft, the company’s CEO said on Thursday.

“We are campaigning, and we have given them offers,” Saab CEO Micael Johansson told Reuters, confirming discussions with the Gulf countries. Qatar and Saudi Arabia have expressed interest in the early-warning and control aircraft, which are already in service with the United Arab Emirates.

Saab has also proposed the GlobalEye platform to Canada, based on a Bombardier business jet, and is ready to transfer technology and knowledge to set up a local facility. The facility would handle sensor installation and other modifications that are normally done in Sweden to convert the empty “green” jets into defence-capable aircraft. Canada has not yet made a decision.

The Netherlands recently announced it would cancel plans to purchase six Boeing E-7 Wedgetail surveillance aircraft, leaving NATO allies to explore alternative options. Saab sees this as an opportunity to offer the GlobalEye system to NATO members seeking advanced early-warning capabilities.

Johansson also noted that Saab is providing information about its Gripen fighter jet to Canada, though the company is not actively campaigning for a sale. Canada has considered replacing some of its Lockheed Martin F-35 jets and is evaluating options following trade tensions with the United States. Saab had previously proposed building Gripen jets in Canada under license with Bombardier, creating a third production line alongside those in Sweden and Brazil. The Swedish and Brazilian lines will also produce Gripen jets for Colombia as part of a $3.6 billion deal.

The GlobalEye aircraft, which integrates radar, sensors, and surveillance technology, has gained attention from multiple countries for its ability to monitor airspace and support defence operations. Saab continues to engage with potential customers in different stages of the decision-making process, highlighting the aircraft’s flexibility and technological advantages.

With rising interest in advanced surveillance and early-warning systems globally, Saab’s efforts to promote the GlobalEye platform to Gulf nations, Canada, and NATO allies reflect a strategic push to increase its presence in the international defence market.

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