The Dutch Ministry of Defence has announced that it has abandoned its plan to purchase six Boeing E-7 Wedgetail radar aircraft, which were intended to replace NATO’s existing Boeing E-3A AWACS aircraft.
This decision emerged after the United States, one of the program partners, announced in July 2025 that it would withdraw from the project. Other countries participating in the program, including Türkiye, stated that they would evaluate more effective, Europe-focused alternative aircraft and explore the possibility of forming new partnerships.
Sweden-based SAAB stands out among the alternative radar aircraft providers.
Emphasis on European Industry and Strategic Importance
These radar aircraft, whose main missions include detection, identification, intelligence, surveillance, and electronic warfare, will reach the end of their service life in 2025. Dutch Minister of Defence Gijs Tuinman emphasized that this process is also important in terms of “investment in European industry.” He did not specify which manufacturer could replace Boeing, but underlined the importance of investing in European industry.
Thanks to their radar and communication systems, AWACS aircraft are positioned as NATO’s “most important platforms in the airspace.” These platforms enable operational flexibility and rapid situational awareness in the air.
