Swedish manufacturer Saab has inked a significant support contract with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Ministry of Defence for its GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) solution.
The contract, valued at approximately $190 million, covers in-service support and spans three years until 2026. Under the terms of the agreement, Saab will provide the United Arab Emirates Air Force (UAEAF) with comprehensive support services, including maintenance, logistics, and training for the GlobalEye system.
“This agreement solidifies Saab’s role in ensuring that GlobalEye remains mission-ready,” says Carl-Johan Bergholm, Head of Saab’s Business Area Surveillance. “We look forward to further strengthening our partnership with the UAE Air Force and Air Defence and providing long-term local support.”
GlobalEye represents an advanced multi-domain AEW&C solution equipped with a diverse set of active and passive sensors. This sophisticated technology enables long-range detection and identification of objects in the air, at sea, and over land. By delivering real-time information to air forces, armies, and navies, GlobalEye enhances situational awareness and facilitates early detection of potential threats, contributing to overall defense capabilities.
The GlobalEye was specifically designed for the United Arab Emirates Air Force. While the Erieye AEW&C radar system is manufactured by Saab, the aircraft is based on the Canadian-made Bombardier Global Express 6000 business jet. In 2015, the Gulf monarchy ordered three aircraft, before placing a follow-up order for two more in January 2021. The first was delivered on April 29, 2020.