Canada has announced plans to purchase a fleet of early warning aircraft from Sweden's Saab, choosing the GlobalEye over a competing option from Boeing. The decision marks a strategic shift as Canada seeks to reduce its reliance on US defense firms.
Prime Minister Mark Carney revealed the decision on Wednesday at a defense conference in Ottawa, stating that Saab's GlobalEye, based on Bombardier's Global 6500 jet, will be a key asset for the Canadian Armed Forces. The aircraft features advanced sensors and mission systems designed to detect and deter threats across the vast Arctic region.
The Boeing E-7 Wedgetail, which had been in contention, has faced delays and cost overruns. Carney emphasized that Canada is taking full responsibility for protecting its Arctic territory, covering over 4.4 million square kilometers, after decades of relying on a partnership with the United States.
Saab has indicated plans to invest in research and development in Canada as part of any deal. While Carney did not specify the fleet size or contract cost, military officials had previously indicated a need for six early warning aircraft.
Philippe Lagasse, associate director of international affairs at Carleton University in Ottawa, called the decision an important test case for the Carney government's policy of pivoting away from American military capability. He noted that it strengthens Canada's relationship with Sweden, a new NATO ally keen to bolster ties with the Canadian military.
Canada has expressed interest in working more closely with Nordic countries on Arctic defense, especially as the US becomes a less reliable partner. Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson welcomed the decision, stating that GlobalEye is already creating jobs in Canada and deepening ties between the two nations.
Saab is also competing to sell Canada its Gripen fighters. Canada currently has a deal to buy 88 F-35 jets from Lockheed-Martin, but after US tariffs on Canadian imports, Carney asked the military to explore reducing that order and purchasing from other manufacturers.
