Defence and security

The defence sector plays a crucial role in national security and international relations, and its legal aspects are of great importance. The area is complex and encompasses a wide range of legal issues, including ESG, contract law, procurement law, international regulation, export control and intellectual property rights.

Our lawyers are among the leaders in the field, combining a high level of professionalism with a practical and commercial approach to our clients’ needs.

Wiersholm’s lawyers have extremely good professional knowledge, they see a case from many sides, they make good ethical assessments and they deliver with high quality at the right time
Legal 500 – Band 1 in Regulatory, compliance and investigations

Legal frameworks are essential to ensure that all parts of the defense sector can function effectively and efficiently, while safeguarding national interests and promoting technological innovation. Furthermore, regulation is important to maintain the balance between security and ethical responsibility, as well as to prevent illicit trade and proliferation of military technology. Therefore, the legal work within the defense sector is not only a necessity to maintain law and order, but also to ensure a safer world.

Our team has extensive experience in assisting Norwegian and international players within defence, emergency preparedness and security. With our expertise, we assist various actors in all areas of law. This includes procurement processes, contract drafting and negotiations, operation and maintenance of equipment and systems, disputes, financing, tax and various regulatory follow-up. Our lawyers have experience from the industry and our advice is practical and solution-focused.

Our Services

Assistance with the implementation of risk assessments.

Interpretation and practical compliance of relevant rules.

Strategic advice on the threat and risk picture by identifying commercial opportunities and advising on positioning.

Assistance in defense and other security classified procurements.

Advice that ensures IT projects meet both national and international security requirements in the defense and security sector.

Preparation of license agreements, transfer agreements and research and development agreements.

Assistance with tailored contract advice for complex defense contracts, and support in contract negotiations.

Advice and support in due diligence and transaction advice for acquisitions and investments involving players in the defense sector. This includes requirements for control of foreign investments (FDI), assessment of specific security risks associated with the transaction in question, compliance with the Security Act, as well as assessment of the risk of government intervention in the interests of national security.