Our Expertise

Defence & Security

Our Approach

Kingsley Napley provides expert legal advice and strategic support to clients operating in the defence and security sector

Kingsley Napley provides expert legal advice and strategic support to clients operating in the defence and security sector, both in the UK and internationally. We understand the complex and highly regulated nature of this sector, offering tailored solutions that mitigate risk, ensure compliance, and protect our clients’ interests in an evolving global landscape.

We advise a broad range of clients, including defence contractors, security firms, government agencies, and individuals engaged in sensitive defence-related matters. Our expertise spans:

Regulatory & Compliance – Ensuring compliance with UK and international laws, including export controls, sanctions, and national security regulations.
Investigations & Litigation – Representing clients in regulatory investigations, criminal matters, and high-stakes litigation.
Government & Procurement – Advising on government contracts, procurement disputes, and defence sector engagement.
Crisis Management & Reputation Protection – Managing sensitive legal risks, media exposure, and reputational threats.
Corporate & Commercial Matters – Providing strategic advice on M&A, joint ventures, and commercial agreements within the defence and security industry.

A strong team ethic shines through at Kingsley Napley and there is ready support from across the whole team, whose assistance is always quick, accurate and reassuring.

Chambers and Partners _ 2025

The team are especially good at being empathetic towards their clients and taking the time to engage with their wider personal context.

Chambers UK _ 2026

What we do for Clients

Government and Regulatory Compliance, Public Procurement and Defence Contracts

Advising clients on UK and international defence and security regulations, including export controls, national security, and anti-money laundering. Supporting government contract procurement, tendering, bid disputes, and negotiation of defence project terms.

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Cybersecurity and Data Protection

Providing legal advice on data security measures, cybersecurity laws, and the protection of classified and sensitive information within the defence and security industries.

National Security and Strategic Defence

Advising defence contractors and suppliers on issues related to national security laws, including the National Security and Investment Act 2021 and the protection of critical infrastructure.

Litigation and Dispute Resolution

Representing clients in disputes with government bodies, suppliers, or contractors, including handling litigation related to breach of contract, intellectual property, and public procurement issues. This includes disputes arising from defence procurement processes, including challenges to tendering and contract award decisions.

Mergers, Acquisitions, and Joint Ventures

Assisting in M&A activities within the defence and security sector, including the structuring of deals involving defence contractors and suppliers, and advising on joint ventures, especially where national security concerns are involved.

Export Controls and International Trade

Advising on the export of military and dual-use technologies, compliance with UK and EU export controls, and managing issues relating to international trade sanctions.

Intellectual Property Protection

Providing legal advice on protecting intellectual property, including patents and trade secrets, particularly for new technologies in the defence and security sectors.

Government Investigations and Security Clearance

Advising on the process and legal issues surrounding security clearances for personnel and entities in the defence sector, as well as representing clients in investigations by government agencies.

Counter-Terrorism and Security Operations

Providing legal support to companies involved in counter-terrorism efforts, including issues relating to surveillance, intelligence gathering, and the use of force in security operations.