Canada to buy Swedish surveillance plane over US models
DW.com • • nation
Key Points:
- Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Canada will purchase the Swedish Saab GlobalEye early warning radar planes instead of American models, marking a shift in military procurement away from the United States.
- The Saab GlobalEye, based on the Canadian-manufactured Bombardier Global 6500 jet, is equipped with advanced sensors and radar systems to enhance Canada's ability to detect and deter threats across the Arctic region.
- This decision aligns with Carney's efforts to diversify military spending, including linking Canada to a major European Union defense fund and limiting U.S. military capital spending to no more than 70% of the total.
- Saab has committed to investing in research and development in Canada as part of the deal, supporting domestic industry alongside the procurement.
- The move comes amid heightened tensions between Canada and the U.S., particularly following trade disputes and Canada's reconsideration of purchasing U.S. F-35 fighter jets.