Saab and France’s defense procurement agency have reached a significant milestone by signing a joint declaration of intent for the potential sale of GlobalEye airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft to the French military. This agreement is expected to pave the way for a formal contract in the upcoming months that will encompass not only the aircraft itself but also ground systems, training, and various support services.
The GlobalEye system is notable for its ability to integrate both active and passive sensors, which enhance its capability to detect and track various targets across air, sea, and land. The acquisition is anticipated to bolster the situational awareness and threat detection capabilities of the French Armed Forces, as emphasized by Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab.
The GlobalEye AEW&C aircraft is equipped with the Erieye Extended Range radar, which is mounted atop a 10-meter (33-foot) structure on the fuselage. This advanced radar features an Active Electronically Scanned Array system that allows for the detection and tracking of targets at extended ranges, even in challenging conditions marked by signal interference or jamming. The aircraft operates at an altitude of 35,000 feet (10,668 meters) and is capable of identifying low-flying targets as low as 200 feet (61 meters) above ground level.
In terms of capabilities, GlobalEye extends its reach to maritime surveillance, effectively tracking surface targets up to the radar horizon, including small vessels like jet skis. It employs Ground Moving Target Indication technology to monitor and identify moving vehicles on land. To enhance its object recognition and classification ability, the GlobalEye system integrates several advanced technologies, including the Automatic Identification System, Electro-Optical System, and Inverse Synthetic Aperture Radar.
Moreover, the GlobalEye aircraft is designed for extended missions, offering operational capabilities lasting more than 11 hours without the need for refueling. This endurance allows for persistent surveillance across vast geographic areas, making it a formidable asset for modern military operations.
The expected formal agreement will mark a significant step forward in enhancing the surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities of the French military forces through advanced airborne technology.
