Sweden begins probe into Czech BAE-Saab deal: report

0 Comments | AFP, February, 2007

LONDON (AFP) — Swedish government prosecutors are conducting an inquiry into bribery allegations to do with Saab's involvement with British defence manufacturer BAE Systems's dealings in the Czech Republic, the Financial Times has reported.

BAE Systems holds a 20 percent stake in Saab, the business daily reported.

Citing Sweden's chief prosecutor, the FT said that the country was investigating Saab's involvement in the Czech deal, and was soon planning to make a decision on whether or not to launch a full inquiry.

The deal being investigated is a 2001 agreement worth 60 billion Czech koruny (2.13 billion euros, 2.8 billion dollars) which was later cancelled, involving the sale of 24 Gripen combat aircraft to the Czech military.

Saab and BAE teamed up...