France is making a decisive move towards bolstering its strategic air surveillance capabilities by opting for the European-made Saab GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, signaling a gradual phasing out of its long-serving U.S.-built E-3 Sentry fleet. This decision, formalized through a letter of intent signed with Swedish defense firm Saab, underscores France’s commitment to European defense autonomy and the modernization of its air force.
The French Air and Space Force currently operates four Boeing E-3F Sentry aircraft, delivered in the early 1990s. These aging platforms have become increasingly challenging to maintain, plagued by outdated systems and airframe fatigue. The global trend among E-3 operators, including the U.S. Air Force and NATO, is also towards seeking more modern replacements, making France’s shift a timely and necessary upgrade.
The GlobalEye, built on the advanced Bombardier Global 6000/6500 business jet, represents a significant leap in AEW&C technology. It is equipped with Saab’s state-of-the-art Erieye ER radar, which utilizes active electronically scanned array (AESA) technology and gallium nitride (GaN) components. This translates into superior energy efficiency, enhanced resistance to jamming, and a substantially greater detection range—reportedly over 650 kilometers—compared to older systems.
Beyond its primary air surveillance role, the GlobalEye offers a comprehensive multi-domain capability. It integrates a Seaspray 7500E maritime surveillance radar and an electro-optical/infrared sensor, enabling it to detect and track targets across air, land, and sea domains in real-time. This holistic situational awareness is crucial for navigating complex modern battlefields and operating effectively in contested environments.
France initially plans to acquire two GlobalEye aircraft, with an option for two additional units, alongside a comprehensive support package that includes ground equipment, crew training, and technical assistance. While a firm contract is expected in the coming months, this strategic procurement not only modernizes France’s critical airborne surveillance assets but also reinforces European defense industrial cooperation and aims to ensure France maintains sovereign control over its vital early warning capabilities.