PRACTICES

Operating in the defence sector requires more than technical excellence, it demands strict adherence to evolving legal regimes designed to protect national security and control sensitive information. From managing classified data and restricted access to complying with export controls and investment screening mechanisms, the legal obligations are extensive and unforgiving. Our expertise helps defence actors navigate this complex environment with precision, ensuring lawful operations, strategic resilience, and full alignment with the highest standards of national and international compliance.

  • Combating corruption in the defence industry requires compliance systems tailored to national and international standards (Sapin II, FCPA, UK Bribery Act). The firm supports companies in the sector in managing their specific risks, including interactions with public authorities, use of intermediaries, and operations in high-risk areas. It also intervenes in the event of investigations or whistleblower reports, ensuring legal security and safeguarding strategic interests. The approach combines legal rigour, in-depth sector knowledge, and the ability to operate effectively in complex environments.

  • The firm supports companies subject to the IGI 1300 and IM 900 regulations in analysing their obligations regarding the protection of national defence secrets. Its assistance covers all relevant aspects: information classification, site security, personnel clearances, and the supervision of partnerships and international exchanges.

  • The firm supports defence companies in managing export controls applicable to military equipment, dual-use goods, and sensitive technologies. We provide assistance with product classification, analysis of the applicable legal regimes, and the preparation of licence applications to the competent authorities, both in France and abroad.

    We also assist you during the controls conducted by the relevant authorities, including the BIS and the DGA.

  • The firm advises defence companies on the application of sanctions and embargo regimes, whether national, European or international. We analyse applicable restrictions, secure sensitive operations, and implement compliance frameworks tailored to the sector’s specific challenges and the complexity of contractual chains.

  • The firm supports defence companies in integrating international humanitarian law (IHL) at every stage of their activities, including during research and development. We cover risks related to the potential use of goods or technologies in armed conflicts, due diligence obligations regarding serious IHL violations, and the compliance of partnerships, contracts, and commercial flows. This approach strengthens legal risk management and reinforces the integrity of compliance frameworks.

  • The firm supports defence companies in evaluating and securing foreign investments. The analysis covers both the legal requirements under France’s foreign investment control regime (IEF) and the strategic considerations of opening up capital: protecting sensitive activities, managing authorisation procedures with the Treasury, and mitigating risks related to governance, intellectual property, and industrial partnerships. We enable informed decision-making aligned with the company’s sovereignty and growth interests.