Particle.news
Download on the App Store

France Orders Two Saab GlobalEye Aircraft in €1.1 Billion Deal to Replace AWACS

The deal advances a FranceSweden defense roadmap that links missile cooperation to a French frigate bid.

Overview

  • France's procurement agency DGA ordered two GlobalEye AEW&C aircraft from Saab for €1.1 billion, with options for two additional units.
  • Deliveries are planned between 2029 and 2032 to take over from the French Air and Space Force’s four Boeing E-3F AWACS.
  • Saab said the selection strengthens European sovereignty and enhances interoperability as both France and Sweden field GlobalEye.
  • The contract formalizes a June letter of intent signed at the Paris Air Show, embedding the purchase in a broader bilateral plan.
  • The roadmap includes cooperation on Meteor and Aster missiles, and France has proposed its FDI frigate for Sweden’s future surface-combatant program, with a candidate selection targeted for early 2026.