Saab CEO Pushes GlobalEye Amid NATO E-7A Withdrawal

November 19, 2025 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2025-1764102360218-820

Swedish Firm Seeks Alternative to Boeing E-7A Wedgetail AEW&C Aircraft

Saab CEO Micael Johansson is pushing for the GlobalEye aircraft as an alternative to the Boeing E-7A Wedgetail AEW&C aircraft, following NATO’s rejection of the latter. The Swedish firm claims that SHAPE has looked into using GlobalEye for future AWACS operations and believes it can fill a gap left by retiring E-3 Sentry fleet. Saab is investing in production options and exploring potential customers in Germany and Canada. However, it remains unclear whether Germany will acquire an AEW&C aircraft as a national asset or join the common allied procurement under iAFSC umbrella.

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Key Takeaways

NATO allies rejected the E-7A Wedgetail aircraft.
Saab’s GlobalEye is being considered as an alternative.
SHAPE has looked into using GlobalEye for future AWACS operations.

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Strategic Implications

This development suggests that NATO may be open to alternative solutions, potentially indicating a shift in its procurement priorities. The fact that SHAPE has expressed support for GlobalEye’s capabilities could signal a more progressive approach to operational value. However, it remains unclear how this will impact the final decision-making process.