Defence
Australia's defence industry is experiencing transformative growth driven by global geopolitical shifts (including AUKUS) and rapid technological advancements.
As the sector evolves and expands, our clients need legal expertise that understands the complexities and future trajectory of this strategically critical industry.
How we can help
As Australia's leading full-service law firm, we have been involved in the nation's largest defence projects over the past decade, including lead roles for Defence contractors on each of Australia’s most significant naval programs (including submarine and surface fleet).
We have some of the most experienced and successful defence project experts in Australia, with a wealth of experience spanning the entire lifecycle of large defence programs – from market entry, to contract formation and through to dispute resolution.
We know the risks and challenges of this politically sensitive sector inside out. Our team is uniquely qualified to help you navigate the key issues, with market-leading expertise across:
- commercial contracting
- government procurement processes
- M&A
- foreign investment approvals and export control
- intellectual property
- real estate
- dispute resolution
- planning and environment
- cybersecurity and incident response
- employment, training and performance management.
Experience
Our team has been involved in the country's largest, most innovative and most complex defence transactions – in addition to a number of smaller procurements and arrangements.
We have a long history of advising defence contractors, including:
- large United States prime contractors in the Australian market, including Northrop Grumman and Raytheon; and
- large European prime contractors (both on and off program), including BAE Systems, Rheinmetall and Naval Group.
ASC
Advising ASC in relation to its collaboration with BAE in respect of the SSN-AUKUS submarines.
Hunter Class Frigates
Advised BAE Systems on its involvement in the Commonwealth's $35 billion Hunter Class frigate shipbuilding program for the Royal Australian Navy.
Sale of ASC Shipbuilding
Advised BAE Systems on the transfer of ASC Shipbuilding to BAE Systems Australia.
Attack Class Submarine Program
Advised Naval Group on all aspects of its agreements, as prime contractor, for the $80 billion Attack Class Submarine Program (the precursor to the SSN AUKUS program), which was then Australia’s largest-ever defence program.
Combat reconnaissance vehicles
Advising Rheinmetall Defence Australia Pty Ltd on the $10 billion contract for Land 400 Phase 2, the procurement of combat reconnaissance vehicles.
Palantir
Advising on technology procurements and on contracting for the provision of its software across all sectors, including defence and intelligence.
Entry into Australia
Advising US headquartered defence technology company regarding its entry into Australia, and in connection with its agreement for a co-funded design, development and manufacturing program for Naval Materiel.
Acquisition of M5 Securities
Advised Northrop Grumman on its acquisition of M5 Securities, a defence cyber security provider.
Acquisition of Qantas Defence Services
Advised Northrop Grumman on its acquisition of Qantas Defence Services, which provides support and maintenance for customers including the Royal Australian Air Force.
Sale of CEA Technologies
Advised Northrop Grumman on its sale of CEA Technologies, Australia’s leading military radar and communications systems manufacturer, to the Commonwealth.
Acquisition of Boeing's Naval Systems Division and contracts for Collins Class submarines
Advised Raytheon on its acquisition of Boeing's Naval Systems Division and the associated contracts for the Collins Class Submarines. This involved negotiating all aspects of the transfer of this main contract from BAE to Raytheon.