# Canada has opted to purchase a fleet of early warning planes from Sweden's Saab.

*aerospace · news · 2026-05-27 · Devdiscourse*

## Key points

- Canada will purchase Saab's GlobalEye early warning planes, moving away from U.S. defense suppliers.
- The GlobalEye aircraft is based on Bombardier's Global 6500 jet, linking Swedish and Canadian industries.
- This acquisition is part of Canada's strategy to take full responsibility for Arctic defense.
- Canada aims to meet NATO's 2% GDP defense spending target through this and similar procurements.
- The deal strengthens Sweden's status as a key defense partner for Canada.

In a significant defense procurement decision, Canada has opted to purchase a fleet of early warning planes from Sweden's Saab, moving away from reliance on American defense firms. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Mark Carney, highlighting a strategic pivot towards Saab's GlobalEye aircraft, which is based on Bombardier's Global 6500 jet. During a defense conference in Ottawa, Carney stressed that Saab's GlobalEye will be crucial for the Canadian Armed Forces to safeguard the nation's Arctic region. The move is seen as part of Canada's broader strategy to assume full responsibility for its Arctic defense, following years of dependence on U.S. capabilities. The decision also underscores Canada's efforts to enhance military spending, meeting NATO's target of allocating 2% of GDP to defense expenditures. Sweden's Prime Minister, Ulf Kristerson, remarked on the strengthening ties between the two nations through this acquisition, further cementing Sweden's role as a key defense partner for Canada. (With inputs from agencies.)

**Companies:** Saab, Bombardier
**Countries:** Canada, Sweden

[Read the full story on Devdiscourse](https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/international/3924038-canada-chooses-swedish-jets-over-american-in-defense-pivot)

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