Walker Morris formalises defence sector focus

Walker Morris has added Defence to its portfolio of strategically important sectors following a review of its markets focus.

Jeanette Burgess, Walker Morris Managing Partner, said:

“Our route to market via sectors has been an important part of our recent success, enabling us to leverage our collective expertise and provide a more tailored client service.

“Our extensive portfolio of work across the Defence ecosystem over recent years has continued to build our in-depth knowledge of this vital sector. As activity and investment across the UK defence industry continue to grow, it makes sense to bring our expertise together in a more cohesive way, harnessing our commercial and strategic insight and capabilities to support funders and suppliers in achieving their business objectives.”

UK defence spending reached £60.2 billion in 2024/25 and is forecast to increase to £73.5 billion by 2028/29, with strong growth in regional defence activity. Ministry of Defence spending in Yorkshire and the Humber reached £1 billion in 2024/25 – a 30% year‑on‑year increase – supporting around 17,500 defence‑related jobs.

The WM Defence sector team brings together established cross‑firm expertise to support defence and defence‑adjacent organisations operating in a highly regulated environment shaped by geopolitical, security and procurement challenges.

The team comprises expertise in procurement, regulation, technology, export controls, competition, financing and corporate transactions, employment and specialist manufacturing, reflecting the breadth and international reach of modern defence programmes and complex supply chains. The firm also supports clients with sanctions compliance and national security requirements, helping them manage risk and operate securely and confidently.

Recent notable work across the sector includes:

• German drone manufacturer: strategic acquisition
• A leading equipment manufacturer: UK Ministry of Defence tank engine procurement tender
• MAA, CAA, FAA and EASA approvals : acquisitions of global military and civilian aerospace businesses.
• A statutory corporation sponsored by the Secretary of State for Defence: procurement of an open framework for offshore storage depot services.
• Private equity buyers and portfolio companies: UK merger control and foreign direct investment issues arising from defence‑linked acquisitions.
• Defence and aerospace clients: security‑sensitive workforce management.
• Planning and infrastructure consents: strategic energy and defence‑linked projects, including Development Consent Orders and Compulsory Purchase Orders.
• IP assignments: various matters including for client working with defence and intelligence agencies.
• Dispute resolution: defence satellite imagery services.

Commenting on the sector launch, James Crayton, Partner and Head of the firm’s manufacturing sector programme, said:

“As defence activity continues to grow in scale, complexity and scrutiny, bringing our capability together in a dedicated group allows us to support clients in a more joined‑up, operationally aware and commercially focused way.

“Just as importantly, our position across the supply chain, from OEMs and technology innovators to investors, critical infrastructure operators and public bodies, means we are well placed to connect clients where that helps them achieve their own strategic and commercial objectives. By sharing insights and facilitating collaboration, we can help businesses navigate complex markets, build resilience, unlock opportunities and manage risk.

As part of its growing profile in the market, Walker Morris recently hosted a Defence & Security Roundtable at its Leeds offices, co‑hosted with the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA), which formed part of WYCA’s region‑wide research project into Yorkshire’s emerging defence ecosystem.

Walker Morris’ sector focus currently accounts for c.80 per cent of firmwide income and comprises clients who make and move goods, those who develop and manage the built environment, and those who grow, invest in and support businesses and consumers.