In defence procurements, intellectual property rights often constitute one of the most central components of the procurement itself. The contract’s provisions regarding intellectual property rights can be decisive, not only for the contract value, but also for the parties' room to manoeuvre for many years to come. It is therefore essential for all parties involved to have full control over which rights are included in the contract and which are not.

Given the significant defence procurements that have been initiated and are to be initiated in the coming years, the potential for Norwegian industrial participation is substantial. With thorough knowledge of the regulatory framework and early positioning vis-à-vis foreign suppliers, one is better equipped to seize the opportunities that arise.

Interest in Norwegian defence industry has never been greater. The supplier industry and technology companies are positioning themselves as defence suppliers, and investors are identifying the sector as an attractive segment. Norway does not currently have a general regime for investment screening for suppliers to the defence sector, but the regulatory landscape is more extensive than many expect and subject to pending legislative changes.

Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 changed the European security landscape for the foreseeable future, and recent developments in the Middle East reinforce the picture of a world characterised by heightened geopolitical tensions. The significant role Norway has assumed through plans of major defence procurements necessitates significant contributions from industry and investors – and thus also presents significant opportunities. Wikborg Rein has one of Norway’s leading teams of specialist lawyers dedicated to assisting clients in the defence and security sector, and will be focusing on defence procurement and investment in a series of articles in the coming months.

Contract Law and Construction

Defence and Security

Dispute Resolution

Offshore

Sanctions and Export Controls

Shipping

Shipping Offshore

Senior Associate

Guro works with disputes, transactions and general legal assistance within the shipping and offshore segment.

She provides advice in a number of areas and in matters involving both private parties and public authorities. Her field of work is mainly related to maritime law and contract law issues, including related to larger manufacturing contracts, as well as planning of and carrying out transactions. She also has experience with assistance related to international sanctions and export control.

Guro has a particular interest in contract law issues and has written a master's thesis on set-off and direct claims.

Bergen

{"title":{"title":"Guro Bjørnes Skeie | Wikborg Rein"}}

Guro works with disputes, transactions and general legal assistance within the shipping and offshore segment.