The Saab 'GlobalEye' Airborne Early Warning Aircraft: MODERN EYE IN THE SKY
Video from the channel Matsimus about Saab, linked on its Above Ten Thousand entry. Duration: 14:24. Language: English. Video type: Documentary.
What it's about
An explainer piece about the Saab GlobalEye, an airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft that combines the extended-range Erieye radar with the Bombardier Global 6000/6500 business jet platform. The author explains its sensors and functions, reviews its commercial track record and discusses its possible adoption by Canada, comparing it with the E-7 Wedgetail.
Historical context
The GlobalEye builds on the Erieye radar family that Saab had previously fitted to the Saab 340, the Saab 2000 and Embraer platforms. The United Arab Emirates was the launch customer, placing an order in 2015; the first aircraft flew in 2018 from Saab's airfield, and in September 2024 the fifth Emirati aircraft was delivered, completing a fleet received from 2020 onward. Sweden has ordered it under the designation S 106 (three aircraft), and France has ordered two with an option for two more, with deliveries planned between 2029 and 2032. In May 2026 Canada announced formal negotiations with Saab as preferred supplier, with no contract signed yet.
Key facts
The radar antenna, an active electronically scanned array around 10 m long, sits in a fairing on top of the fuselage. The system brings together air, maritime and ground surveillance, identification, electro-optical sensors, electronic support measures, AIS and command-and-control tools, and can send its data to ground stations even without operators on board. Saab states an instrumented range of over 350 nautical miles (around 650 km), and the video cites an endurance of between 11 and 13 hours. Compared with the E-7, it is presented as a more compact option that is cheaper to operate and maintain.