Canada’s aerospace and defence sector could be on the verge of a major breakthrough, as reports suggest NATO is considering a next-generation surveillance system developed through a partnership between Saab and Bombardier.
According to European media outlets, the alliance is evaluating the GlobalEye advanced surveillance aircraft as a replacement for its aging fleet of Boeing E-3A Sentry planes, which have been in service since the 1980s and are expected to retire after 2035.
While NATO has not officially confirmed a final decision, officials acknowledged that discussions are ongoing as part of a broader effort to modernize its airborne early warning and control capabilities. The initiative is being supported by the NATO Support and Procurement Agency as member nations weigh their options.
The GlobalEye system combines Saab’s cutting-edge radar and surveillance technology with a long-range business jet platform from Bombardier. The aircraft is designed to detect threats across air, sea and land domains, while offering extended flight endurance of more than 11 hours. Its smoother flight profile is also expected to reduce crew fatigue and extend the lifespan of onboard mission equipment.
If selected, the system would represent a significant shift for NATO, marking the first time in more than four decades that a non-Boeing aircraft would take on this critical surveillance role. The alliance had previously planned to replace its fleet with the Boeing E-7A Wedgetail, but those plans were scrapped after the U.S. Air Force moved away from the platform in favour of emerging space-based surveillance systems.
The potential deal could provide a substantial economic boost for Canada’s aerospace industry, particularly in Quebec where Bombardier is headquartered. It would also strengthen Canada’s role within NATO’s defence supply chain at a time of increasing global security challenges.
Although Saab confirmed it has provided information to NATO, the company emphasized that no contract has been signed and no official order has been placed.
With several countries, including the United Arab Emirates,