Saab/BAE Systems is reiterating its intention to buy a stake in Czech aircraft manufacturer Aero Vodochody ahead of the country's final decision on multirole fighters, due in November. The joint venture wrote to Aero in late October expressing an interest in acquiring a large part of the government's remaining 65% stake.
Saab/BAE says the deal is conditional on a Gripen contract, but a letter of intent is needed in order to carry out due diligence ahead of any formal takeover offer. The Czech Government's evaluation is complete, and Saab/BAE is likely to be awarded the contract next month. Gripen is the only contender after Dassault, Eurofighter and Lockheed Martin withdrew.
A Saab/BAE investment in Aero would see it sharing responsibility for marketing the L-159 light combat aircraft and advanced trainer.
Production at Aero would be "over and above" the Czech Government's 150% offset requirement, and the factory, modernised by the company's other shareholder Boeing, will be offered a role in future Gripen development.
Source: Flight International
