Aerospace and defence projects


High-risk, highly regulated and highly complex, we can help you navigate the challenges of the aerospace and defence sectors, and make the most of opportunities for innovation and commercial success. 

Having worked extensively in defence and aerospace, we understand the complex, closely-scrutinised nature of these industries. Multi-jurisdictional, highly regulated, vulnerable to political, economic and environmental factors, you need support that is both considered and commercial. 

That's where we come in. We work with the government, defence companies, airlines and manufacturers, supporting them to navigate the opportunities and risks of their industries. Whether they need help with procurement issues, supply chain agreements, engine contracts or acquisitions, we are a go-to partner. 

Our experience

Our aerospace and defence lawyers provide extensive specialist knowledge and we draw on experts from across the firm to build the right team for you.

Whatever your challenge, we can navigate through the legal requirements of the aerospace and defence industries. We have extensive experience advising on:

  • How to structure successful procurements and manage the risks facing bidders
  • Partnering arrangements
  • Mergers and acquisitions
  • Maintenance contracts
  • Long-term supply/service/logistics agreements

As an example of the depth and breadth of our work, here are just a handful of the projects we have supported the Ministry of Defence on: 

  • All phases of the Morpheus Programme, a £multi-billion complex procurement by the MOD to evolve and transform its Bowman battlefield and tactical communications system.
  • The provision of over £300million of equipment, spares and repair services for the Queen Elizabeth class of aircraft carriers and Type 45 destroyers
  • Availability contracts with BAE Systems for the Harrier and Typhoon jets
  • A Type 45 Destroyer in-service support contract with BVT Surface Fleet Support
  • Engine contracts with Rolls-Royce
  • The outsourcing of army recruitment services

Did you know?

£3.2billion

Advising the MOD on the Morpheus Programme, a £3.2billion procurement to develop its Bowman communications system.

2

The number of aircraft carriers being supported by the MSSP contract we helped the MOD to procure.

12

Proud members of the MOD legal panel for the past 12 years. 

What our clients say about us?

“Mills & Reeve’s major quality was their ability to provide clear and accessible advice and guidance. Their advice was always very commercial, explained clearly and delivered in plain English. I am yet to meet a Mills & Reeve lawyer that is not easy to get along with!”

Senior Commercial Officer

Ministry of Defence

Our clients

Our clients include:

  • Ministry of Defence
  • Maritime Coastal Agency
  • Defence Infrastructure Organisation 
  • A leading family-owned, multi-million-pound aerospace and defence company 
  • A substantial privately-owned precision components manufacturer
  • Tier 1, 2 and 3 companies in the aerospace and defence supply chain

Get in touch

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