Saab and General Atomics Develop an Unmanned Airborne Early Warning Solution

Saab has announced a strategic partnership with General Atomics Aeronautical Systems to develop an Unmanned Airborne Early Warning (UAEW) solution. This solution will be based on the MQ-9B unmanned aerial system from General Atomics Aeronautical Systems.

The collaboration merges Saab's esteemed expertise in AEW&C systems with the advanced unmanned aircraft systems technology of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems will integrate Saab's AEW sensors with their unmanned MQ-9 B platform. This new capability will offer persistent surveillance and situational awareness by enabling continuous monitoring of designated areas.

"We are bringing our exceptional ability to detect and track challenging objects to customers looking to use MQ-9B to meet their specific needs. This unmanned medium-altitude AEW solution, leveraging core competencies of both companies, has excellent potential to complement our existing AEW&C portfolio and provide customers with yet another cutting-edge capability," says Carl-Johan Bergholm, head of Saab’s business area Surveillance.

This unmanned medium-range AEW solution complements Saab's existing portfolio of manned AEW&C systems, including GlobalEye. It will provide customers with a wider range of options, such as AEW capability from naval warships, to meet mission needs. The solution can be used stand-alone or in manned-unmanned teaming, leveraging the strengths of each capability.

Saab has decades of experience in providing AEW and AEW&C systems globally, including to NATO and reliable international partners.