Saab GlobalEye Vs. Boeing E-7 In Canada's AWACS Procurement Plan

Saab has pitched its GlobalEye aircraft to Canada, competing to supply the country's first Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) capability.

The GlobalEye will directly compete with Boeing’s E-7 Wedgetail, a platform already selected by the United States, NATO, and other key allies.

Announced ahead of CANSEC 2025, Canada’s premier defense and security trade show, Saab’s proposal combines Swedish radar and sensor technology with the Canadian-built Bombardier Global 6000/6500 airframe.

Canada’s need for an AEW&C platform was formalized in its April 2024 defense policy update, marking the first time the Royal Canadian Air Force has pursued such a capability.

According to Saab, the new aircraft will bolster Canada’s participation in NORAD, as well as its ability to detect and manage airborne and missile threats across vast distances and varied terrains.

The government has allocated approximately $5.5 billion CAD for the acquisition and lifecycle support of the new platform over two decades, with initial operational capability expected by the late 2030s.

Saab’s GlobalEye is already in service with the United Arab Emirates and on order for Sweden, where it is designated the S 106. Based on the Canadian-made Bombardier Global 6000/6500, it is equipped with advanced sensors—including the Erieye ER AESA radar, Leonardo Seaspray maritime radar, and electro-optical, AIS, and ISAR systems—providing strong multi-domain surveillance and surface threat detection. Saab has also committed to ramping up production to four aircraft per year, if needed, to meet demand.

However, Saab’s bid will face a formidable challenge from Boeing’s E-7 Wedgetail, which is rapidly becoming the AEW&C standard among Five Eyes allies. The E-7, based on the Boeing 737 airliner, offers a high level of interoperability with the U.S. Air Force, NATO, and other partners.

Moreover, Canada has already opted for a Boeing solution once before, selecting the P-8 Poseidon for its Multi-Mission Aircraft (CMMA) requirement in a deal worth up to $7.7 billion CAD, despite a rival bid based on the Bombardier Global 6500.

If Canada continues down this path, the E-7 would align its AEW&C fleet with the U.S., U.K., and Australian forces, simplifying joint operations, training, and logistics.

Yet Boeing’s offering benefits from proven scale, widespread adoption, and a strong political and strategic alliance backing—factors that were decisive in previous Canadian procurement decisions.