The federal government says the deal could lead to at least 40 aircraft being built in Montreal and Toronto over the next 15 years, including possible orders from Canada’s allies. Officials say the project could support more than 3,000 jobs in Canada’s aerospace and defence industries.
Canada is considering buying six GlobalEye systems for more than $5 billion. The aircraft would help monitor threats in the Arctic and strengthen North American security.
The move is part of the government’s plan to rely less on the United States for military equipment and increase Canadian defence manufacturing. By choosing Saab, Canada appears to be moving away from Boeing’s E-7A Wedgetail surveillance aircraft, which was also being considered.
Carney also announced new measures aimed at helping Canadian defence companies grow, including faster project approvals and stronger partnerships between government and industry.
At the same time, Canada has been building closer defence ties with Europe while tensions with the United States continue over military procurement and defence cooperation.
