The Canadian government's decision means that competing bids from the United States have been eliminated.
Global Eye - which is based on Canadian aircraft manufacturer Bombardier's Global 6500 model - will, if the deal goes through, be part of a system for protecting airspace against, among other things, cruise missiles and hypersonic missiles.
With a suite of advanced sensors and mission systems, Saab's Global Eye will become a key asset for Canadian defence to detect and deter threats in the Arctic, says Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (M) welcomes the deal. He points out that in addition to Sweden, France and the United Arab Emirates have also chosen Saab's system, which he calls "very modern and capable."
“By using Global Eye, Canada strengthens its ability to protect its sovereignty while contributing to NATO's collective defense, including being a key asset for monitoring and controlling the Arctic region,” writes Kristersson on X.
Delivery in a few years
Saab writes in a press release that Canada will begin "detailed discussions and formal negotiations with Saab as the preferred supplier."
They're normal contract negotiations, but we're pushing for them to happen as quickly as possible, says Saab CEO Micael Johansson on the phone from Canada to TT.
The negotiations will include determining how many planes will be delivered. Micael Johansson says it will be around six planes.
It is not yet clear when deliveries will begin.
As a company, we can start delivering sometime in 2030–2031. Then we would deliver the first ones from Sweden.
Micael Johansson says that Saab will also build a production line in Canada.
Transferring knowledge
The company has offered to “build, maintain and upgrade the Canadian Global Eye fleet” together with Canadian partners.
The goal is to transfer knowledge and technology to Canada so that the domestic defense industry can grow.
Saab's Gripen fighter jet is also included as one of the possible options in another deal with Canada. Micael Johansson says that discussions are continuing.
But I have no idea when Canada might reach a decision on that issue.
