MSPO 2025: Northrop Grumman, Saab pitch AEW&C solutions to Poland

Saab presented a scale model of its GlobalEye at MSPO as it pushed to secure an anticipated AEW&C requirement for Poland. (Andrew White)

Northrop Grumman and Saab are positioning themselves to support Poland's expected requirement for an airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft, although an official solicitation by the Ministry of National Defence (MND) has yet to be published.

The former promoted its E-2D Advanced Hawkeye and the latter its GlobalEye aircraft at the MSPO exhibition in Kielce, Poland, running from 2 to 5 September. Both Northrop Grumman and Saab presented scale models of their respective platforms at the event.

Industry sources explained to Janes the future direction of any such programme would remain dependent upon the MND's ongoing review of its defence modernisation plan. Poland currently leases a pair of Saab 340 Erieye AEW&C aircraft following a 2023 contract agreement, which is due to expire in 2027. These aircraft are tasked with protecting Poland's national airspace as well as NATO's eastern flank.

“When the lease runs out, Poland will need a requirement for its own [AEW&C] capability,” an industry source explained to Janes before conceding, “Numbers are yet to be confirmed and there is no timeline on the selection of an aircraft. More information is expected after the modernisation review.”

At MSPO, Northrop Grumman signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with PGZ subsidiary WZL-2 that was focused on further co-operation on the E-2D offer to Poland, with an official noting the MOU specifically covered maintenance of E-2D aircraft in Poland. “Poland is showing a lot of interest and engaging with Northrop Grumman,” the official said.