This article is based on an official press release from Saab AB.

France Selects Saab GlobalEye for Strategic Air Surveillance in €1 Billion Deal

In a decisive move reinforcing European defense sovereignty, the French Defense Procurement Agency (DGA) has officially placed an order for two GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft from Swedish defense and security company Saab. The contract, valued at approximately SEK 12.3 billion (€1.08 billion), marks a significant pivot for the French Air and Space Force as it prepares to retire its aging fleet of Boeing E-3F Sentry AWACS.

According to the official press release issued by Saab on December 30, 2025, the agreement includes a firm order for two systems with an option to procure two additional aircraft. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in 2029 and conclude by 2032. This procurement not only modernizes France’s aerial surveillance capabilities but also underscores a deepening strategic partnership between Paris and Stockholm, prioritizing European industrial solutions over traditional American alternatives.

Contract Details and Delivery Timeline

The agreement outlines a comprehensive acquisition plan designed to seamlessly replace France’s legacy systems. The total contract value of SEK 12.3 billion covers the aircraft, systems integration, and initial logistical support. The French government has opted for a phased delivery approach to ensure operational continuity.

• Firm Order: 2 GlobalEye aircraft.
• Options: 2 additional aircraft.
• Delivery Window: 2029 through 2032.
• Platform: Bombardier Global 6000/6500 business jet.

Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab, highlighted the significance of the deal in a company statement:

“By selecting GlobalEye, France is investing in a highly modern and capable Airborne Early Warning & Control solution. This choice reinforces France’s commitment to sovereignty and strengthens Europe’s overall protection.”

Technical Capabilities: A Multi-Domain Asset

The GlobalEye system represents a generational leap in surveillance technology compared to the E-3F Sentry, which has been in service since 1991. Built upon the ultra-long-range Bombardier Global 6000/6500 business jet, the platform offers superior endurance, capable of flight times exceeding 11 hours, and a significantly smaller logistical footprint than airliner-based systems.

Advanced Sensor Suite

At the heart of the GlobalEye is the Erieye ER (Extended Range) radar. This S-band Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar provides wide-area coverage and is capable of detecting targets at ranges greater than 650 kilometers. Unlike traditional AWACS platforms that focus primarily on aerial threats, the GlobalEye is a “swing-role” asset designed for multi-domain operations.

According to technical specifications released by Saab, the system can simultaneously monitor:

• Air: Tracking stealth aircraft, cruise missiles, and drones.
• Sea: Detecting surface vessels and periscopes, a critical requirement for France’s maritime interests in the Mediterranean and Indo-Pacific.
• Land: Monitoring ground vehicle movements at long ranges.

Strategic Autonomy and Industrial Cooperation

France’s decision to procure the Swedish-made GlobalEye rather than the Boeing E-7 Wedgetail, which has been selected by NATO allies including the UK and the USA, signals a strong commitment to “strategic autonomy.” By choosing a European solution, France mitigates reliance on US-controlled technology and export restrictions (ITAR), ensuring greater operational independence.

To meet French requirements for local industrial participation, Saab has structured the deal to include significant domestic involvement. A framework agreement has been signed with Sabena Technics, a leading French aerospace maintenance provider. Sabena Technics will be responsible for local modifications, systems integration, and long-term support for the fleet, ensuring that sensitive maintenance work remains within French borders.

AirPro News Analysis

This procurement is a watershed moment for the European defense market. For decades, the Boeing E-3 Sentry was the de facto standard for NATO airborne early warning. As fleets age, Boeing’s E-7 Wedgetail was widely expected to inherit that monopoly. However, France’s selection of Saab disrupts this narrative, validating the GlobalEye as a top-tier competitor capable of meeting the rigorous demands of a nuclear-armed power.

We observe that this deal is likely to influence other European nations currently assessing their surveillance needs. It demonstrates that European industry can provide viable, high-tech alternatives to US off-the-shelf systems, potentially accelerating a trend toward continental defense consolidation. Furthermore, the operational shift from heavy, airliner-based platforms to agile business jets reflects a broader doctrine prioritizing sensor fusion and connectivity over airframe size.

Sources

Sources: Saab AB Press Release

This article summarizes reporting by the Philippine News Agency and additional context from industry reports.

KAI Secures $64.5 Million Contract to Modernize Philippine FA-50PH Fleet

Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has finalized a significant agreement with the Philippine Department of National Defense (DND) to upgrade the avionics and operational capabilities of the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) existing fighter jet fleet. Signed on December 26, 2025, the contract is valued at 93 billion won (approximately USD 64.5 million) and covers the modernization of 11 FA-50PH light combat military-aircraft.

According to reporting by the Philippine News Agency (PNA), the upgrade program is scheduled to run through 2029. The initiative aims to bridge the capability gap between the PAF’s current assets and the more advanced platforms it is currently acquiring, ensuring the fleet remains viable for external defense missions.

This deal represents a critical step in the “Horizon 3” phase of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Modernization Program, which prioritizes territorial defense and interoperability with allied forces.

Scope of the Upgrade Program

The modernization package focuses on three primary areas: radar performance, operational range, and weapons integration. Industry reports indicate that the upgrades are designed to transform the FA-50PH from a lead-in fighter trainer with light attack capabilities into a more potent multi-role combat aircraft.

Enhanced Avionics and Connectivity

A central component of the upgrade is the improvement of the aircraft’s radar and communication systems. KAI aims to install “network-based interoperability” features, likely referring to Link 16 data link capabilities. This technology allows the FA-50PH to share real-time tactical data with other AFP assets, such as modern frigates and ground-based radar-systems, as well as with allied nations during joint patrols.

Range and Weaponry

To address the logistical challenges of patrolling the vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), the upgrade includes provisions for extended operational range. Reports suggest this will be achieved through the integration of larger 300-gallon external fuel tanks. Furthermore, the aircraft will be adapted to carry enhanced precision-guided munitions, potentially including the AIM-9X Sidewinder and GPS-guided bombs, improving their lethality in both air-to-air and air-to-ground roles.

“This contracts is an opportunity to once again confirm the trust and cooperative relationship between the Philippine Air Force and KAI.”

, Cha Jae-byung, CEO of Korea Aerospace Industries (via Yonhap News Agency)

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Fleet Status and Recent History

The Philippines originally acquired 12 FA-50PH jets between 2015 and 2017 under the “Horizon 1” modernization phase. However, the current contract covers only 11 aircraft following a hull loss earlier this year.

On March 4, 2025, one FA-50PH was lost in an accident in Bukidnon during a night combat support mission. The crash resulted in the fatalities of both the pilot and co-pilot. Investigations cited by defense reports attributed the incident to environmental factors and the risks associated with night operations in complex terrain, rather than mechanical failure. Following a review of safety protocols, the remaining fleet returned to active service.

Distinction from New Acquisitions

It is important to distinguish this upgrade program from a separate, larger acquisition deal signed earlier in the year. In June 2025, the DND signed a contract worth approximately USD 700 million for the purchase of 12 brand-new FA-50 “Block 20” aircraft.

Unlike the existing fleet being upgraded, the incoming Block 20 jets, slated for delivery by 2030, will feature factory-standard advanced capabilities, including:

• AESA Radar: The Raytheon PhantomStrike Active Electronically Scanned Array radar for superior target detection.
• Air-to-Air Refueling: A telescopic probe allowing for significantly longer mission endurance.
• BVR Capabilities: Full integration of Beyond Visual Range missiles like the AIM-120 AMRAAM.

AirPro News Analysis

The decision to upgrade the legacy fleet rather than retire it demonstrates a pragmatic approach to modernization by the Philippine defense establishment. At a cost of roughly $5.8 million per airframe, the DND is extending the service life of its assets while ensuring they can operate alongside the incoming Block 20s. Without these upgrades, the older FA-50PHs would lack the data-link connectivity required for modern “cooperative engagement” tactics, effectively rendering them obsolete in a high-intensity conflict scenario in the South China Sea.

By 2030, the PAF is projected to operate a mixed fleet of 23 FA-50s (11 upgraded legacy models and 12 Block 20s). This mix provides a “high-low” capability within the light fighter category, allowing the more advanced Block 20s to handle complex air-to-air tasks while the upgraded legacy jets conduct maritime patrols and ground support.

Sources

Sources: Philippine News Agency, Yonhap News Agency, FlightGlobal

This article summarizes reporting by Reuters.

Pentagon Awards Boeing $8.6 Billion Contract for Israeli F-15IA Jets

The United States Department of Defense has officially awarded The Boeing Company a contract with a ceiling of $8.6 billion for the production of F-15IA fighter jets for Israel. Announced on December 29, 2025, the deal solidifies a long-term commitment to modernizing the Israeli Air Force (IAF) with advanced heavy-lift capabilities.

According to reporting by Reuters, the agreement covers the design, production, and delivery of 25 new F-15IA Commercial-Aircraft, with options that could eventually bring the total fleet to 50 jets. The contract is scheduled to run through December 31, 2035, with initial deliveries expected to commence in 2031.

This announcement comes at a pivotal moment in U.S.-Israel relations, following a high-profile meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Florida. The acquisition is framed by defense officials as a critical step in maintaining Israel’s Qualitative Military Edge (QME) in the Middle East.

Contract Details and Financial Scope

While the Israeli Ministry of Defense initially announced a $5.2 billion signing for the first tranche of jets in late 2024, the Pentagon’s newly released figures reflect a significantly higher Contracts ceiling.

Understanding the $8.6 Billion Figure

The $8.6 billion valuation represents the maximum potential value of the Foreign Military-Aircraft Sales (FMS) agreement. Based on data from the Pentagon announcement, this figure accounts for:

• The production of the initial 25 F-15IA aircraft.
• An option for an additional 25 aircraft.
• Non-recurring engineering (NRE) costs for integrating proprietary Israeli systems.
• Long-term support, instrumentation, and inflation adjustments over the decade-long timeline.

Work will be performed primarily at Boeing’s facility in St. Louis, Missouri. The production schedule anticipates a delivery rate of four to six jets per year starting in 2031.

Technical Specifications: The “Ra’am II”

The F-15IA (Israel Advanced), often referred to as the “Ra’am II,” is a customized variant of the F-15EX Eagle II. It is designed to operate as a “bomb truck” alongside the stealthy F-35I “Adir.”

Payload and Range

According to Boeing specifications referenced in the reporting, the F-15IA features an unmatched weapon carriage capacity of 29,500 lbs (13,300 kg). This payload allows the aircraft to carry heavy munitions, such as “bunker-buster” bombs and future hypersonic missiles, which the F-35 cannot carry internally.

The aircraft boasts a range of approximately 3,900 km (2,400 miles) when equipped with external fuel tanks. Defense analysts cite this range as essential for potential long-range strike missions against distant targets.

Israeli Customizations

The IAF variant will differ significantly from the standard U.S. Air Force F-15EX. Key integrations include:

• Avionics: A “glass cockpit” with large area displays and the AN/APG-82(V)1 AESA radar.
• Electronic Warfare: Indigenous Israeli EW systems designed to counter advanced air defense networks like the S-300 and S-400.
• Weapons Integration: Certification for Israeli-made munitions, including the Python and Derby air-to-air missiles and SPICE guided bombs.

Geopolitical Context

The finalization of this contract occurs against a backdrop of heightened regional tension. Sources indicate the deal was expedited following the “June 2025 War,” a brief conflict involving Israel, the U.S., and Iran that reportedly damaged Iranian military infrastructure.

President Trump has publicly supported the acquisition as a deterrent against the rebuilding of hostile nuclear capabilities. In a statement following his meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu, the President emphasized a “hell to pay” stance regarding regional disarmament, reinforcing the U.S. commitment to supplying offensive weaponry despite protests from anti-war groups regarding the humanitarian toll of recent conflicts.

AirPro News Analysis

The Strategic “High-Low” Mix

The procurement of the F-15IA highlights a shift in air power strategy. While the F-35I provides stealth to penetrate sophisticated air defenses, it is limited by its internal weapons bay. The F-15IA serves as the heavy hitter in this equation. By networking these two platforms, the IAF creates a “high-low” mix where the F-35 acts as a forward sensor and target designator, while the F-15IA delivers the massive ordnance required to destroy fortified underground facilities.

Furthermore, the 2035 completion date signals a structural U.S. commitment to Israeli security that extends well beyond any single presidential administration. This contract effectively locks in industrial cooperation and logistical support for the next two decades.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the F-15IA jets arrive in Israel?
Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2031 and continue through 2035.

How does the F-15IA differ from the F-35?
The F-35 is a stealth aircraft designed to evade radar, while the F-15IA is a non-stealth air superiority fighter optimized for heavy payloads, long range, and speed.

What is the total cost of the deal?
The Deliveries ceiling is $8.58 billion, though the initial funded portion signed in 2024 was $5.2 billion. The final cost depends on whether Israel exercises the option for the second batch of 25 jets.

Sources: Reuters, The Jerusalem Post, Boeing, Israeli Ministry of Defense