Kielce 2025-09-06
SAAB GlobalEye Early Warning Aircraft.
The SAAB GlobalEye aircraft is a type of airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) system. Aircraft of this type are designed to detect aircraft, ships, vehicles, missiles, and other incoming aircraft from long ranges, as well as to provide command and control of the battlespace during air combat by informing and directing allied fighters and attack aircraft. The radar system in AEW&C aircraft, used at high altitude, allows operators to detect and track targets and distinguish friendly aircraft from foreign aircraft in real time and from a much greater range than ground-based radars. The SAAB GlobalEye platform consists of a sensor suite utilizing primarily SAAB’s Erieye ER (Extended Range) radar and mission system.
The platform chosen for the SAAB GlobalEye system was the Bombardier Global 6000 aircraft, or alternatively the Global 6500. In reality, the aircraft was developed by SAAB (Sweden), and Bombardier (Canada) is providing only the Jet Business aircraft. The aircraft made its first flight in March 2018. The first aircraft entered service in April 2020. In 2021, the aircraft cost $509 million. To date (2024), five aircraft have been sold to the United Arab Emirates military. Additional aircraft are in production for other customers.
In February 2016, Swedish company Saab announced the launch of a program to integrate a variant of its Erieye radar system with the Canadian Bombardier Global 6000 long-range business jet, creating a specialized airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft. This platform is commonly referred to as GlobalEye. SAAB stated that the launch of the program was in response to interest from potential customers. The Erieye reconnaissance system was previously installed on the Swedish Saab 340 AEW&C and the Brazilian Embraer R-99 platforms. Comrade Putin’s attack on Ukraine on February 24, 2022, highlighted the need for increased financial spending by Central European countries on defense systems. As a result, several other countries have expressed interest in the SAAB GlobalEye system. Furthermore, SAAB has obtained additional certifications for the Global 6000 aircraft in the GlobalEye configuration, enabling it to apply for further contracts. In addition, orders for additional Bombardier Global 6000 aircraft have helped maintain Bombardier’s financial health. Remember, a few years ago, the company was on the verge of bankruptcy due to the Bombardier C-series 300 program, which was acquired by Airbus (A220).
The SAAB GlobalEye production process involves the delivery of completed Global 6000 aircraft to Sweden, to the factory in Linköping. Here, the aircraft is disassembled and prepared for the installation of new systems and equipment. Modifications include strengthening both the airframe and wings. The frames that house the radar, which is mounted on the dorsal surface, are reinforced. Additional surfaces are installed to stabilize the aircraft in the air. Electronic warfare sensors are mounted on the wingtips. Other reconnaissance systems are mounted under the fuselage, under the radome. Aerodynamic modifications include the use of a taller vertical stabilizer and several aerodynamic vanes located under the rear fuselage. The horizontal stabilizer has been fitted with additional aerodynamic vanes with sensors. Additional power and cooling equipment is being installed. To improve survivability, a self-defense system has been installed, consisting of laser and radar warning receivers, as well as defensive weapon launchers.
SAAB has the capacity to produce three aircraft per year, and the ordered aircraft will be delivered within 36 months. On February 23, 2018, SAAB unveiled the first GlobalEye reconnaissance aircraft. Ground testing, including taxiing, began in early March 2018. On March 14, 2018, the first GlobalEye made its maiden flight from Linköping. The aircraft was piloted by Saab test pilot Magnus Fredriksson. The first flight lasted 1 hour and 46 minutes. The test program was extensive, and the aircraft flew almost daily. In January 2019, the second aircraft completed its first flight.
The primary sensor in GlobalEye is the Erieye ER early warning (AEW) radar. The radar weighs approximately 1,000 kg. SAAB states that the radar range is up to 450 km (216 nm) for the AEW radar system at an operating altitude of 30,000 ft and 550 km at 35,000 ft. Compared to earlier versions of the Erieye radar, SAAB claims a 70% increase in detectability. This was achieved through the use of new technologies, such as gallium nitride transceiver modules. In addition to the AEW radar, GlobalEye is equipped with additional sensors. These include the Seaspray 7500E maritime surveillance radar, supplied by Italian defense company Leonardo. The Seaspray radar features a synthetic aperture radar and ground-based moving target indication modes. GlobalEye also has an electro-optical/infrared sensor located in the forward fuselage. Other mission equipment includes data links, voice and satellite communications, and a command and control suite. The latter consists of five onboard operator stations. GlobalEye can be operated without onboard operators, instead streaming surveillance signals to ground stations. GlobalEye can simultaneously perform air, sea, and ground surveillance tasks. The system is also capable of detecting ballistic missiles. The aircraft detects virtually the entire spectrum of aircraft, surface, and ground targets.
In November 2015, the United Arab Emirates ordered the system, which they call the Swing Role Surveillance System (SRSS), under a $1.27 billion contract. In February 2017, the UAE exercised its option to purchase a third GlobalEye under a $238 million contract. In April 2020, the UAE took delivery of its first aircraft. The final, fifth aircraft for the country was delivered in September 2024.
On June 18, 2025, France ordered two aircraft with an option for two more. It cannot be ruled out that these will be the first GlobalEye aircraft installed on a Bombardier Global 6500 aircraft. Sweden has ordered three aircraft and one with an option. Sweden intends to supplement the two SAAB 340 AEW&C aircraft sold to Poland and the two aircraft transferred to Ukraine (information from May 29, 2025). By 2025, Sweden has contracted three aircraft. Interested countries include Canada, Finland, Denmark, Greece, and South Korea. It should be noted that there is a competitor in the form of the Boeing E-7 Wedgetail, which has greater capabilities but is more expensive to purchase and operate.
The SAAB GlobalEye aircraft is being offered to Poland, especially since the Polish Army operates two SAAB 340 AEW&C aircraft, which are operated by the Naval Aviation Brigade. During the International Defense Industry Exhibition in Kielce, which took place from September 2 to 5, 2025, SAAB presented its comprehensive SAAB GlobalEye airborne reconnaissance system. However, given the current situation of the Polish Army, these plans are still a long way off.
Key differences between the Global 6000 and the Global 6500:
Engine and fuel consumption: The Global 6000 uses Rolls-Royce BR710A2-20 engines with ~14,750 lb (≈ 65.6 kN) thrust. The Global 6500 features modern Rolls-Royce Pearl engines, each with a greater thrust of ~15,125 lb (≈ 67.3 kN). The Pearl engines are more efficient, reducing fuel consumption by up to ~13%, offering longer range and lower operating costs. Range and speed: The Global 6000 has a range of approximately 6,000 NM (11,112 km) at a cruise speed of Mach 0.85, with a maximum speed of Mach 0.89. Global 6500 – range increased to 6,600 NM (12,223 km) at the same typical cruise Mach 0.85, maximum Mach 0.90. Takeoff and landing and airport performance; Both models have a comparable operating altitude – up to 51,000 ft. Global 6000: takeoff distance ~6,476 ft, landing ~2,236 ft. Global 6500: takeoff ~6,370 ft (shorter), identical landing ~2,236 ft. Additionally, a Smooth Flex wing is used to suppress turbulence and improve wet performance. Cabin and interior; The cabin dimensions are almost identical in both models: Height: 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m). Width: approx. 7 ft 11 in (2.41 m). Length: approximately 43 ft 3 in (13.18 m). Both aircraft offer space for up to 17 passengers. Both the Global 6000 and 6500 have approximately 195 ft³ (approx. 5.5 m³) of internal baggage space. The Global 6500 features a refreshed interior inspired by the Global 7500 and an advanced Vision Cockpit with the option of a Combined Vision System (CVS) – it combines synthetic and enhanced vision, making flight easier in challenging conditions. Operating Costs; Estimated operating cost: Global 6000 – approximately $5,150/hour Global 6500 – lower: approximately $4,900/hour. List price: Global 6000 – approximately $62 million Global 6500 – approximately $56 million.
Written by Karol Placha Hetman