This article is based on an official press release from Saab, supplemented by industry research.

Canada Selects Saab as Preferred Supplier for Future AEW&C Fleet

On May 27, 2026, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced at the CANSEC defense and security trade show that the government has entered into formal negotiations with Swedish aerospace company Saab. According to an official press release from Saab, the company has been selected as the “preferred supplier” for Canada’s future Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) capability program.

The proposed solution centers on Saab’s GlobalEye, an advanced multi-domain surveillance aircraft built on the Canadian-manufactured Bombardier Global 6500 business jet. This decision marks a significant milestone in Canada’s defense procurement strategy, emphasizing domestic economic benefits and diversifying its defense partnerships away from traditional monopolies.

While no final contract has been signed, the selection of Saab over rival bids, including Boeing’s E-7 Wedgetail and the L3Harris/Elta Systems Aeris X, signals a strategic shift for Ottawa. The procurement process will be led by Canada’s Defence Investment Agency (DIA), with industry reports indicating an intended acquisition of approximately half a dozen aircraft.

Strategic Context and Operational Needs

Canada boasts the world’s longest coastline, spanning over 243,000 kilometers, alongside vast and remote Arctic territories. The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) requires robust airborne command, control, and surveillance capabilities to monitor these regions and respond to long-range threats effectively.

The integration of the GlobalEye fleet is expected to significantly enhance Canada’s contributions to the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and extend its operational reach for NATO missions. The aircraft features Saab’s Erieye Extended Range radar, which is capable of tracking stealthy threats, drones, ballistic missiles, and hypersonic missiles even in high-clutter and jamming environments.

AirPro News analysis

We note that choosing a European partner over traditional U.S. suppliers like Boeing represents a bold geopolitical statement regarding trade diversity and national sovereignty. By selecting the GlobalEye platform, Canada is demonstrating that its multibillion-dollar defense budget is no longer a guaranteed monopoly for American defense giants, particularly when domestic industrial integration is prioritized. Furthermore, the focus on advanced threat detection aligns directly with Canada’s pressing need to secure its Arctic airspace amid rising global tensions.

Domestic Economic Impact and Partnerships

A major factor in Saab’s selection, as highlighted in the company’s press release and government statements, is the commitment to integrating the Canadian domestic supply chain. The procurement is projected to support 3,000 jobs across the Canadian aerospace and defense sector, ranging from skilled trades to engineering.

During the announcement, Prime Minister Carney stated that no less than one-third of the projected fleet of GlobalEye aircraft will be manufactured in Canada over the next 15 years. This aligns with the government’s “BUILD–PARTNER–BUY” approach, combining advanced defense capabilities with tangible economic benefits for Canadians.

Teaming Agreements with Bombardier and CAE

To deliver the GlobalEye, Saab is partnering heavily with Canadian industry leaders. Bombardier is entering discussions to lead the modification program on its Global 6500 platform and manage Canada’s industrial role in potential future exports.

“The intention to bring GlobalEye modification and integration work to Canada… is a perfect example of a robust and comprehensive Defense Industrial Strategy at work,” stated a Bombardier official following the announcement.

Additionally, Saab has signed a teaming agreement with Canadian simulation and training giant CAE to provide fully integrated flight, mission, and rear crew training solutions to enhance the operational readiness of the Canadian Armed Forces.

“Building on our longstanding collaboration and trust with Saab, this agreement reflects our shared commitment to delivering innovative, integrated solutions,” said Matthew Bromberg, President and CEO of CAE.

The overarching goal of these Partnerships is to ensure sovereign ownership and operational independence for the RCAF.

Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab, summarized the agreement: “GlobalEye offers proven capability for the Royal Canadian Air Force, sovereign ownership for Canada and comprehensive and skilled work for Canadian industry.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Saab GlobalEye?

The GlobalEye is a multi-domain Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft. It combines Saab’s Erieye Extended Range radar with an advanced suite of sensors mounted on a Bombardier Global 6500 business jet.

Has Canada signed a final contract with Saab?

No. Saab has been named the “preferred supplier,” meaning the Canadian government, led by the Defence Investment Agency (DIA), will now enter into detailed discussions and formal negotiations.

How many aircraft is Canada buying?

While the final order is pending negotiations, industry reports indicate that Ottawa intends to acquire approximately half a dozen of these aircraft.

Sources

• Saab Press Release

This article is based on an official press release from Moody Air Force Base.

On May 26, 2026, Moody Air Force Base in Georgia announced a significant tactical upgrade for its A-10C Thunderbolt II fleet. According to an official press release from the base, maintainers have successfully installed and tested the aircraft’s first air refueling probe. This modification transitions the venerable attack aircraft from relying exclusively on traditional “flying boom” refueling systems to utilizing a “probe-and-drogue” method.

We note that this development allows the A-10 to receive fuel from C-130-based tankers, such as the HC-130J Combat King II, at altitudes below 10,000 feet. The integration addresses an urgent combatant command requirement, significantly enhancing the aircraft’s operational flexibility for Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) and Close Air Support (CAS) missions.

Enhancing Tactical Flexibility for the Warthog

Shifting to Probe-and-Drogue Systems

Historically, the A-10 relied on the KC-135 Stratotanker’s flying boom for mid-air refueling. However, as noted in secondary reporting by The Aviationist, the A-10 has not been operationally certified to receive fuel from the newer KC-46 Pegasus tankers. Relying solely on high-altitude boom tankers limited the tactical flexibility of the A-10, forcing pilots to climb away from the battlefield to refuel and temporarily abandon their close air support overwatch.

The new probe-and-drogue system fundamentally changes this dynamic. By enabling refueling below 10,000 feet, A-10 pilots can now stay aligned with low-level CSAR and CAS missions without breaking formation or losing visual contact with the ground. The modification allows the A-10 to be supported by a wider variety of tactical tankers, including the HC-130J, MC-130J Commando II, and KC-130J Super Hercules.

Simultaneous Refueling Capabilities

Beyond altitude flexibility, the probe-and-drogue system introduces a critical efficiency upgrade. According to the provided operational details, the new system allows two A-10s to refuel simultaneously from a single HC-130J. This capability was impossible with the single-boom KC-135 method and drastically cuts down the total refueling time required for a flight of aircraft operating in contested or austere environments.

The Installation and Testing Process

Overcoming Maintenance Hurdles

The installation process at Moody Air Force Base moved rapidly. According to the press release, maintainers received the new probes on May 11, 2026, and began installation on the first of two aircraft on May 13. The collaborative effort involved Moody’s 23d Maintenance Squadron, including fuels craftsman Tech. Sgt. Brent Vargas, and Tech. Sgt. Wesley Zell, a specialized A-10 refueling probe installer brought in from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base.

While the installation is designed to take approximately four hours, the maintenance team encountered minor challenges with legacy hardware on the aging airframes.

“There’s been a lot of issues getting these bolts removed so we can put the probe on. These screws and bolts hardly ever come out anyway, so doing this is the time-consuming part of it. Once we get that part up, the install of the probe is very simple,” stated Tech. Sgt. Wesley Zell in the official release.

Successful First Flight

Following the hardware installation, pilots from the 74th Fighter Squadron conducted familiarization flights. On May 19, 2026, an upgraded A-10 successfully completed its first flight from an HC-130J Combat King II assigned to the 71st Rescue Squadron.

“It’s a good capability for us. It’ll give us more options when we’re in future fights and during things as simple as moving across country or transoceanic crossings. It’s another capability that can help us,” noted Capt. Wayman, an A-10 pilot with the 74th Fighter Squadron, in the Moody AFB release.

Broader Military Context

AirPro News analysis

We observe a fascinating paradox in the U.S. Air Force’s current management of the A-10 Thunderbolt II fleet. The integration of this new probe-and-drogue technology comes at a time when the military has publicly stated its goal to fully divest and retire all A-10s by the end of the decade. In fact, according to April 2026 reporting by Air & Space Forces Magazine, the final class of new A-10 pilots has already graduated.

Despite its planned retirement, the “Warthog” continues to receive rapid capability upgrades to maintain its relevance in modern conflicts. Upgraded A-10s deployed to the Middle East in 2026 for Operation Epic Fury have been observed utilizing not only the new refueling probe but also advanced electronic warfare systems like the “Angry Kitten” pod. The rapid development and deployment of the refueling probe, first tested by the Air National Guard Air Force Reserve Command Test Center in early April 2026, demonstrate a clear commitment by the Air Force to maximizing the aircraft’s lethality and survivability until its final day of service.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why is the A-10 getting a new refueling probe?

The new probe-and-drogue system was developed in response to an urgent combatant command requirement. It allows the A-10 to refuel at lower altitudes (below 10,000 feet), enabling pilots to stay closer to the battlefield during Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) and Close Air Support (CAS) missions.

What tankers can the A-10 refuel from now?

With the new probe, the A-10 can receive fuel from C-130-based tactical tankers, including the HC-130J Combat King II, MC-130J Commando II, and KC-130J Super Hercules. It also allows two A-10s to refuel simultaneously.

Is the A-10 retiring soon?

Yes. The U.S. Air Force plans to fully divest and retire the A-10 fleet by the end of the decade, and the final class of new A-10 pilots graduated in April 2026. However, the aircraft is still receiving critical upgrades to support ongoing operations until its retirement.

Sources:
Moody Air Force Base Press Release

Czech Ministry of Interior Acquires 11 Airbus H145 Helicopters for Police Aviation Service

On May 27, 2026, the Czech Ministry of Interior formalized a significant aviation acquisition, signing a contract with Airbus Helicopters for 11 five-bladed H145 helicopters. According to the official press release, these new aircraft will be operated by the Czech Police Aviation Service.

The incoming fleet will serve as the primary aerial asset for the country’s law enforcement, search and rescue (SAR), and emergency medical services (EMS). The comprehensive agreement includes not only the delivery of the 11 helicopters but also an extensive training and logistics support package designed to ensure seamless operational integration from the moment of delivery.

This acquisition marks a major milestone in the modernization of the Czech Republic’s public safety infrastructure. As noted in the Airbus announcement, the deal builds upon a 25-year relationship between the European aerospace manufacturer and the Central European nation, reinforcing deep industrial and economic ties.

Fleet Modernization and Transition

Replacing the Legacy H135 Fleet

The Czech Police Aviation Service is a long-standing operator of Airbus rotorcraft, currently utilizing a fleet of nine H135 family helicopters. Based on the provided project background, the incoming H145s are specifically intended to replace this aging fleet. Because the Czech police already operate the H135, transitioning to the H145 is considered a logical evolution. The two helicopter models share a high degree of technical and operational commonality, which Airbus states will significantly ease the integration process for both flight crews and maintenance teams.

Advanced Training Preparations

Preparation for this fleet upgrade has been underway for some time. Industry data shows that in August 2024, the Czech Police purchased an H145 FNPT II MCC flight simulator from Entrol. This simulator features a spherical visual seven-channel system and a custom database covering key Czech airports, including Prague, Karlovy Vary, and Ostrava. This early investment has allowed pilots to train for critical situations, such as firefighting and SAR operations, well before the physical delivery of the new helicopters.

Technical Capabilities of the H145

Performance and Avionics

The five-bladed Airbus H145 is marketed as a state-of-the-art, multi-role aircraft designed for mission flexibility. Compared to the current H135 fleet, the H145 will significantly enhance the police force’s tactical range and lifting capacity. The aircraft is powered by two Safran Arriel 2E engines equipped with full authority digital engine control (FADEC). Furthermore, it features the advanced Helionix digital avionics suite and a high-performance four-axis autopilot, which Airbus notes increases safety and reduces pilot workload during complex missions.

Environmental and Operational Benefits

For urban law enforcement and nighttime medical missions, acoustic footprint is a critical factor. The manufacturer highlights that the H145 is the quietest helicopter in its class and claims it produces the lowest CO2 emissions among its competitors. Globally, the H145 family has a proven track record, with more than 1,800 helicopters in service having logged over 8.5 million flight hours. Of these, more than 200 are specifically utilized for public service and law enforcement missions worldwide.

“We are honoured that the Czech Ministry of Interior has chosen the H145 to support its vital missions,” stated Thomas Hein, Head of Europe Region at Airbus Helicopters, in the official release. “As the Czech police currently operate the H135, transitioning to the H145 is the logical next step in their fleet’s evolution, allowing crews and maintenance teams to benefit from a high degree of commonality and ensure seamless operational readiness from day one.”

Broader Defense and Economic Context

National Aviation Overhaul

This helicopter acquisition is part of a much larger, ongoing effort by the Czech Republic to modernize its national aviation and defense capabilities. Recent developments in the country’s defense sector include the extension of its Saab Gripen fighter lease until 2035, bridging the gap until the anticipated arrival of 24 new Lockheed Martin F-35A fighters. Additionally, the Czech Republic signed an agreement with Embraer for two C-390 Millennium transport aircraft, with the first delivery expected in 2025. In late 2025, the Ministry of the Interior also secured an option to acquire up to three modernized UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters for the Air Service of the Police.

AirPro News analysis

We view this H145 contract as a strategic continuation of the Czech Republic’s comprehensive aviation overhaul. By standardizing on Airbus for its light-twin police operations while simultaneously upgrading its heavy transport and fighter capabilities with other allied defense contractors, Prague is systematically replacing legacy platforms with interoperable, modern equipment. Furthermore, the economic symbiosis between Airbus and the Czech Republic cannot be overstated. With Airbus currently sourcing over €200 million worth of goods from the Czech Republic annually, this procurement reinforces a mutually beneficial industrial partnership that extends well beyond a standard vendor-client transaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How many helicopters did the Czech Ministry of Interior order? The contract is for 11 five-bladed Airbus H145 helicopters.
• What will the new helicopters be used for? They will be operated by the Czech Police Aviation Service for law enforcement, search and rescue (SAR), and emergency medical services (EMS).
• What aircraft are the H145s replacing? They will replace the current fleet of nine Airbus H135 helicopters.

Sources

• Airbus Helicopters Press Release