Defence, Infrastructure and National Security Sector

MOD contracts

With extensive experience negotiating Ministry of Defence (MOD) contracts and advising on the supply of goods and services within the defence sector, we understand the complexities involved. Whether you’re supplying to or contracting with defence organisations, we provide clear, practical advice on the specifics of any agreement—helping you make informed decisions and secure favourable terms.

Employment and HR

Your people are at the heart of your business. Our employment and HR specialists provide expert advice on all workforce matters—whether it’s navigating TUPE, securing the appropriate security clearances, or managing the complexities of employing staff in high-risk environments or overseas. We help ensure your operations run smoothly, compliantly, and securely.

Intellectual property protection

Contracting with the Ministry of Defence (MOD) often requires handing over your intellectual property, which can put your business at risk. We help secure “early exposure” protection to safeguard your interests.

Non-disclosure agreements (NDAs)

Operating in remote or high-risk environments increases the risk of sensitive information being exposed. Without robust NDAs, your organisation could be vulnerable. Our team drafts secure, tailored NDAs to safeguard your most confidential data, ensuring your business remains protected at every stage.

Compliance

Defence businesses must ensure they comply with stringent data protection regulations such as GDPR and industry-specific standards like ISO 9001 and 270001 and Cyber Essentials. Other commercial and contractual requirements include anti-bribery and anti-corruption policies, security clearances and reporting requirements which are crucial, both for compliance purposes and to maintain business integrity. We ensure your business meets these essential standards.

Cyber security

Cyber security is a critical concern for businesses operating in the defence, infrastructure and national sector, given the sensitive nature of the data and systems involved. Defence companies face unique threats, including cyber-attacks aimed at disrupting operations, stealing intellectual property, or compromising national security. Security cleared members of our team can assist in ensuring multi-layered protection and recovery and resilience planning.

Restrictive covenants

Implementing and enforcing restrictive covenants and retention strategies is vital to protect intellectual property, proprietary knowledge, sensitive information, and key talent. With ongoing challenges in attracting and retaining the highly skilled workforce needed to sustain growth, securing top talent is more critical than ever.

Restrictive covenants help prevent key employees from joining competitors or sharing sensitive information, ensuring business continuity and safeguarding competitive advantage. We assist in drafting tailored agreements to maintain workforce stability and protect confidential information. Our specialist team also hold the necessary security clearances to advise on the enforcement of restrictions where necessary, including where the information at risk is classified sensitive data.

Governance and regulatory

Strong governance and regulatory policies are essential for businesses operating in the defence, infrastructure, and national security sectors. They play a critical role in ensuring compliance, mitigating risk, and maintaining operational integrity. These frameworks help safeguard sensitive information, protect intellectual property, and ensure adherence to laws, regulations and industry standards—including government contract requirements, export controls, and cyber security regulations. Our expert team offers comprehensive guidance on governance matters both nationally and internationally, supported by a trusted network of global legal specialists.

Crisis and business continuity

Due to the sensitive, high-risk, and critically important nature of work in the defence, infrastructure, and national security sector, organisations operating in these areas face heightened pressure to maintain business resilience. This is essential to ensure operational readiness and effectiveness, safeguard national security, and minimise the impact of disruptions.

We provide expert guidance in developing and implementing strategies for crisis management, business continuity, and recovery planning. Our services are tailored to enhance your organisation’s resilience, enabling you to maintain operations, protect critical assets, and respond effectively to disruptions. We also help ensure compliance with relevant regulations while mitigating risks and safeguarding your long-term stability.

Export licences

If your business involves international trade, you’ll be aware that export control lists often include a wide range of items, even those that may not appear to have military applications. We provide clear advice on whether an export licence is required and whether your destination is subject to any embargoes or sanctions.

Supply chain contracts

No matter where you sit in the supply chain, it plays a critical role in your business. Our experts will review your contractual provisions and clearly explain your obligations in plain English. We also provide support with due diligence, ensuring your contracts include robust provisions for handling disputes. And if a dispute does arise, we’ll guide you towards the most effective path for resolution.