The aerospace and defence sectors are among the most strategically important industries globally. Defined by rapid technological advancement, strict regulatory requirements, and growing geopolitical relevance, this environment demands legal advice that is not only technically excellent but deeply attuned to market practice and industry realities.
We deliver legal solutions that enable progress — for government bodies, prime contractors, OEMs, disruptive scale ups, and investors alike. Our clients design, build and deploy military systems across air, land, sea and space. They’re advancing innovation in defence AI, unmanned systems, and sovereign manufacturing. And they rely on us to help them navigate a highly complex legal and regulatory landscape with clarity and confidence.
We work at the intersection of law, technology and national security. Whether advising on a cross-border fundraising or acquisition, complex defence procurement, or resolving high-stakes disputes involving sensitive technology, our lawyers bring deep sector experience and commercial strategic insight to the table.
Our team advises on the full value chain — from financing and M&A to R&D, licencing, manufacturing, deployment and export — with particular strength in dual-use and security-relevant technologies. We also support companies engaging with public authorities, participating in large-volume procurement, or scaling through strategic partnerships.
Areas of focus
Unmanned systems (UAS & UMS)Taylor Wessing is once again providing comprehensive legal advice to Cologne-based DEUTZ AG, a leading global engine manufacturer, on its full acquisition of SOBEK Group GmbH (SOBEK). Based in Hirschberg, SOBEK is a leading developer and manufacturer of high-precision electric drive systems, which are used in unmanned aerial systems and military drones, among other applications. In the civilian sector, its customer industries include motorsports, medical technology, and robotics.
Press releaseAdvice to lead investor Balderton Capital on all legal aspects of the €160 million funding for Quantum Systems, the leading provider of AI-powered air surveillance systems.
Press releaseAdvice to Austrian aircraft manufacturer Diamond Aircraft (part of the Aircraft Division of Wanfeng Auto Holding Group Co. Ltd.) on the reorganisation of the German air taxi pioneer Volocopter to secure its future.
Press releaseAdvice to lead investor General Catalyst on all legal aspects of the USD 450 million Series C financing in AI defence pioneer Helsing.
Press releaseComprehensive legal advice to the US company Rhinestahl Corporation on all aspects of the acquisition of HYDRO Systems KG, including structuring, due diligence and contractual documentation. The acquisition led to the formation of RH Aero Systems, a company specialising in innovative aviation support concepts.
Press releaseAdvice to lead investor General Catalyst on all legal aspects of the USD 223 million Series B financing in AI defence company Helsing. The investment makes Helsing Europe's largest defence AI company.
Press releaseAdvice to spacetech start-up The Exploration Company on a €40 million Series A financing. The financing round is the largest Series A financing in the commercial space sector in Europe.
Press releaseAdvice to space company OHB SE (OHB) on the formation of a joint venture with investment company AFK Enterprise AG (AFK). Furthermore, advice on an agreement to secure a minority stake in Deutsche Aircraft Holdings (DAH), which develops innovative environmentally friendly technologies for aviation.
Press releaseAdvice to the insolvency administrator of Frankfurt-Hahn Airport on all legal issues in connection with the sale of the business operations to Swift Conjoy.
Press releaseAdvice to aerospace company OHB SE on the acquisition of GEOSYSTEMS GmbH, one of the leading companies for the evaluation and processing of sensor data from earth observation satellites.
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