Defence and Security

National security is more crucial today than it has been in decades, which was recently reflected in the Norwegian government’s historic increase in defence spending. We offer unique advisory services to defence industry suppliers by combining legal expertise with extensive experience from the Norwegian Armed Forces and a profound understanding of national security issues.

Thommessen advises both private and public entities in the defence and security sector, helping them navigate the complex demands of operating in a highly security-sensitive environment.

We have extensive experience advising defence suppliers across a wide range of legal areas. Our services include:

Defence procurement and classified procurements
Defence procurements are frequently subject to specific regulations, as well as provisions of the Norwegian Security Act. We assist suppliers and contracting authorities throughout the process, ensuring compliance with the Norwegian Security Act, including risk assessments, facility security clearances, and management of sensitive information.
IT projects in the defence and security sector
IT projects in the defence sector face unique challenges in relation to cybersecurity, protection of critical infrastructure, and the safeguarding of classified information. Our team has extensive experience with digital projects that require high levels of security, and we provide advisory services ensuring compliance with both national and international security standards.
Defence contracts
We provide tailored advice for complex defence contracts and assist in contract negotiations. Our guidance helps suppliers understand and comply with the specific security requirements associated with being a supplier to the Norwegian defence sector.
Transactions involving parties in the defence and security sector
We provide expertise in due diligence and transactions involving acquisitions and investments in defence sector entities. This includes foreign direct investment (FDI) requirements, assessment of specific security risks related to a transaction, compliance with the Norwegian Security Act, and evaluating risks concerning potential government intervention on national security grounds.
Strategic advice on threat and risk landscapes
We offer strategic advice on how an evolving threat landscape may impact businesses. This includes helping defence sector actors stay ahead of regulatory developments and adapt accordingly. We also assist in identifying commercial opportunities and offer advice on how businesses may capitalise commercially on emerging trends.