Canada moves to full talks with Saab for six GlobalEye surveillance aircraft

Canada is to move into full negotiations with Saab over the purchase of six GlobalEye airborne early warning and control aircraft.

Saab said on 25 September that it had signed a term-sheet agreement with Canada's Defence Investment Agency, setting out the scope and basis for detailed talks. The Canadian government named the GlobalEye as its preferred option for a first national airborne early warning capability in May 2026, without saying at the time how many aircraft it sought.

Under the proposed programme, Canada intends to buy six GlobalEye aircraft along with associated systems, training and support, according to Saab. The company has previously signed a cooperation agreement with Canada's CAE covering areas including pilot and mission training for a possible future purchase.

Saab said the discussions will cover a system configuration matched to Canada's operational requirements, as well as industrial participation, capability development and programme evolution. Chief executive Micael Johansson said the agreement reflects close collaboration between the company and Canada and provides a framework for the next stage of engagement, adding that the defined scope leaves Saab positioned to show how its AEW&C solution can meet Canadian requirements.

The GlobalEye is a heavily adapted version of the Bombardier Global 6500 business jet. The Royal Canadian Air Force already has an order for six Global 6500s for VIP and other transport duties, including aeromedical evacuation, with the first of those aircraft due to be introduced in mid-2027.