NATO eyes Swedish 'GlobalEye' jets to replace aging US AWACS

The North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) is reportedly preparing to announce a major procurement of Sweden's "GlobalEye" airborne early warning and control aircraft. This significant acquisition is intended to replace the alliance's aging fleet of U.S.-made Boeing E-3A "Sentry" planes, which have been in service for decades.

Sources familiar with the matter indicate that the deal will likely be formalized at the upcoming NATO summit in Ankara. The decision to opt for the Swedish-designed GlobalEye, a versatile platform based on the Bombardier Global 6000 business jet, signifies a strategic shift in the alliance's approach to airborne surveillance technology.

The E-3A Sentry aircraft, based on the Boeing 707, have been a cornerstone of NATO's air power for years. However, their age and maintenance requirements have prompted the need for a modern replacement. The GlobalEye offers advanced radar capabilities and longer endurance, providing enhanced situational awareness for the alliance's operations.