NATO replaces part of the old AWACS fleet with next-generation aircraft. Romania participates in a joint acquisition of Saab GlobalEye surveillance aircraft.

The NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, announced, during the Defense Industry Forum at the NATO Summit in Ankara, that 10 Saab GlobalEye aircraft will be jointly acquired by 11 allies, including Romania, for the new NATO Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS).

This decision marks a significant step in modernizing the Alliance's air surveillance capabilities, replacing the outdated Boeing E-3 aircraft.

The GlobalEye system will provide advanced surveillance of air, land, and maritime spaces, having enhanced capabilities for detecting complex threats, including drones and missiles.

The project highlights transatlantic industrial cooperation, with contributions from the European, Canadian, and American industries. Additionally, eight allies have launched a new project for early warning air capabilities. These initiatives underscore NATO's commitments to strengthen defense and deterrence.

The 11 involved allies are Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Romania, and Sweden.

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