Pakistan gets another Saab 2000 Erieye AEW&C aircraft from Sweden
The Swedish company Saab has completed the delivery of the last Saab 2000
Erieye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft to Pakistan, as
reported by Turkish outlet SavunmaSanayiST.com.
On July 2, 2024, at Minhas Air Base, the final aircraft of the order was
handed over to the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), bringing the total number of Saab
2000 Erieye aircraft in its fleet to nine. These aircraft are crucial for
patrolling the border with India.
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Deployment and Strategic Impact
The newly delivered aircraft will join the 3rd Airborne Early Warning
Squadron, enhancing coordination with combat aircraft stationed at the air
base.
Historical Context
The initial contract for the Saab 2000 Erieye AEW&C aircraft was signed
in 2006, with Pakistan ordering six units. However, due to economic
constraints, the order was reduced to four. Subsequent orders were placed in
2017 and 2020, with three aircraft ordered each year. The Pakistani Ministry of
Defense has indicated plans for additional orders.
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Broader Military Enhancements
Amid deteriorating relations with India, Pakistan has been investing heavily
in advanced military equipment, including modern fighters. Pakistani pilots are
currently training on the Chinese fifth-generation J-31 fighters, which are
being developed by Shenyang Aircraft Industry Group. These fighters, expected
to cost between $70-80 million each, aim to replace older models in both the
Chinese and Pakistani air forces, enhancing the overall capabilities and
fostering closer collaboration on joint aviation projects.
Source: https://mil.in.ua/