# Canada Signs Deal for GlobalEye Aircraft

Canada has signed a non-binding preliminary agreement with Swedish defense firm Saab to acquire six GlobalEye airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, to be built in Canada in partnership with Bombardier. This initiative supports Canada's Defence Industrial Strategy and NORAD modernization, focusing on Arctic and continental surveillance capabilities. Final contract negotiations are ongoing to define Canadian-specific configurations, systems, training, and support, with no contract value or delivery timeline disclosed yet.

- The procurement emphasizes domestic industrial participation, leveraging the Canadian-built Bombardier Global 6500 platform to support aerospace jobs and technology transfer.
- This acquisition aligns with Canada's strategic priorities for Arctic defense and continental security modernization under NORAD.
- Procurement professionals should note the opportunity for Canadian suppliers to engage in production and integration activities as subcontractors or technology partners.
- Industry stakeholders can anticipate future solicitations related to configuration, training, and sustainment services as contract details are finalized.

**Jurisdictions:** federal, international
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** September 26, 2026

### Government Entities
- Government of Canada
- Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF)
- North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD)

### Vendors
- Saab (prime contractor)
- Bombardier (subcontractor)

### Key Quotes
> Canada’s approach to defence procurement must deliver more than military equipment. It must defend Canadians while strengthening our economy, growing Canadian industrial capacity and opening new opportunities for Canadian companies to compete globally.
> — Stephen Fuhr, Secretary of State responsible for Defence Procurement

> This agreement is a tangible step forward in equipping the RCAF with modern capabilities through early industry engagement.
> — David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence

> The programme could create opportunities for Canadian production, mission integration, technology transfer, skilled employment and participation in international supply chains.
> — Mark Carney, Prime Minister

### Sources
- [Ottawa signs preliminary deal with Swedish firm Saab for 6 GlobalEye aircraft | CBC News](https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/government-signs-preliminary-deal-saab-globaleye-9.7358021) - CBC
- [Canada signs non-binding term sheet with Saab for GlobalEye aircraft](https://scanx.trade/stock-market-news/global/canada-signs-non-binding-term-sheet-saab-globaleye-aircraft/51889934) - scanx.trade
- [Canada Advances Toward Six Saab GlobalEye Aircraft for Arctic Surveillance](https://fl360aero.com/detail/canada-advances-toward-six-saab-globaleye-aircraft-for-arctic-surveillance/2504) - FL360aero