London International Disputes Week: Mitigating risks and managing disputes in the rapidly evolving defence sector

As defence spending surges and geopolitical pressures accelerate innovation, the global defence sector is undergoing rapid transformation. This session will explore how these shifts are reshaping procurement processes, supplier risks and the disputes landscape, with a particular focus on the growing role of new defence technologies and market entrants. Drawing on perspectives from UK and Ukrainian practitioners, the panel will consider emerging challenges in defence contracting, the adequacy of existing legal frameworks, the bid challenge landscape and the increasing prominence of arbitration as a forum for resolving sensitive, cross border disputes. The discussion will highlight developments driven by current conflicts, evolving procurement regimes, and the practical tensions faced by private sector suppliers operating in high stakes, security critical environments.

Speakers:

• Kate Gough – Partner, Freshfields
• Joshua Kelly – Partner, Freshfields
• Kostiantyn Likarchuk – Senior Partner, Avellum, Ukraine
• Ian Park – Barrister, Essex Court Chambers and former head of Navy Legal
• Rob Colvin – Senior Associate, Freshfields (moderator) 

Discover the other sessions we will be hosting as part of London International Disputes Week.