We regularly advise companies across the aerospace, defence and national security sector, combining corporate, commercial, regulatory and disputes expertise. We support businesses at all levels of the supply chain on M&A, strategic investments, contracts, governance, national security compliance and complex cross-border matters.

We advise clients in the sector on corporate transactions, strategic investments and complex regulatory matters. We support corporates, investors, founders and management teams on acquisitions, disposals, joint ventures and fundraisings involving defence, aerospace and advanced technology companies. As part of our transactional practice, we advise on the National Security and Investment Act regime, including mandatory notification requirements, engagement with the Investment Security Unit and the management of national security considerations throughout the deal process.

The team also advises on defence procurement and contracting, supporting businesses that supply equipment, technology and services to the Ministry of Defence and throughout the defence supply chain. This includes contract negotiation, commercial risk allocation, procurement processes and compliance with the Single Source Contract Regulations.

We provide regulatory advice on export controls, dual-use goods and technologies, sanctions, and the wider legal framework governing sensitive and strategically important sectors. Our sector expertise extends across civil and commercial aviation, aerospace manufacturing, defence technology, space and emerging technologies such as drones, interceptor systems and autonomous systems. We also advise on technology, intellectual property and cyber security matters, helping clients protect critical infrastructure, safeguard valuable intellectual property and maintain resilience in an increasingly complex security environment.

Our Experience

Global aerospace, defence and security contractor

Acting for a multi-billion turnover global contractor in relation to various contractual disputes with UK MOD, foreign MODs and NATO as well as subcontractors and service providers. Our work included securing injunctive relief to obtain the delivery up of goods being unlawfully held by a third party, successfully arbitrating against UK MOD, co-ordinating overseas legal support in relation to a dispute with NATO and co-ordinating overseas legal support for a number of multi-jurisdictional disputes with foreign MODs, including in KSA and Peru.

International technology company

Supporting an international technology company on the acquisition of an advanced tactical uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) manufacturer, supplying the British Army and other international customers.

UK-based strategic intelligence provider

Supporting a provider of intelligence on its new five-year contract with UK MOD, including providing specific advice in relation to the protection of the supplier’s ‘background intellectual property’ and exploitation of data for other commercial means.