First GlobalEye airborne early warning & control aicraft arrives in Sweden

Designated as S 106, this aircraft is a customized version of Saab’s GlobalEye, tailored to meet Sweden’s defense needs and international collaboration requirements.

The GlobalEye aircraft, based on the Bombardier Global 6000 business jet, is set to undergo a transformation into a sophisticated reconnaissance and command plane, equipped with a distinctive radar on its roof.

Nils Schroeter, the project leader at FMV, highlighted the aircraft’s superior capabilities, stating, “The S 106 can fly much longer and higher than our current fleet, bringing a game-changing ability to our operations.”

Sweden’s existing surveillance aircraft, the S 100/ASC890, have been operational since the late 1990s. The introduction of the S 106 marks a significant upgrade, as these older models are due to be retired in the coming years. The new aircraft promises enhanced capabilities, including extended range and operational ceiling, as well as advanced onboard systems.

The arrival of the first GlobalEye aircraft marks a transition from the planning and design phase to actual construction and deployment.

Schroeter expressed pride in this milestone, noting its importance to Sweden’s defence and its alignment with the demands of international partners and future NATO allies.

Over the next three years, Saab will undertake extensive modifications to align the aircraft with the ordered specifications. This process involves disassembling and replacing significant parts of the aircraft, followed by reconstruction and testing.

The first GlobalEye aircraft is expected to be operational in just over two years, after which it will undergo a year-long flight testing program.

Elisabeth Haglind, Head of the Transport and Special Aircraft Division at FMV, emphasized the commitment to delivering a world-class product to the Swedish Armed Forces, underscoring the strategic significance of this acquisition in enhancing Sweden’s defence posture.