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Poland has signed a contract for two Saab 340 AEW early warning aircraft, enhancing its early detection and warning capabilities.
Poland’s Ministry of National Defense has inked a significant deal for the procurement of two Saab 340 AEW (Airborne Early Warning) aircraft. The agreement was finalized in July of this year, with the first aircraft recently showcased in Sweden for the Polish Air Force.
Minister of National Defense Mariusz Błaszczak emphasized that these aircraft were ordered due to “urgent operational needs.” The acquisition is expected to significantly bolster Poland’s early detection and warning capabilities.
Saab 340 AEW aircraft have been in service with the Swedish Air Force since the 1990s and have also been exported to countries like the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. They have undergone modernization, with the current configuration implemented in 2010, making them compatible with NATO systems.
Interestingly, Sweden plans to replace these aircraft with the more advanced Globaleye aircraft, which were ordered in 2021, indicating the continuous evolution of early warning technology.
The Saab 340 AEW aircraft provide the ability to detect low-flying targets, including maneuvering missiles, from distances of up to several hundred kilometers. This capability significantly surpasses ground-based radar, which typically has a range of less than 50 kilometers, especially for objects flying at an altitude of 100 meters under favorable conditions.
This strategic acquisition underscores Poland’s commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities and contributing to regional security.