"Allegra LAW advises defense companies, manufacturers, investors, and public-sector actors on navigating the global and Switzerland's evolving defense and security framework."
SWISS LAW. GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE.
Defense law is adapting.
For companies prepared to act responsibly and strategically, this creates opportunity.
We help you seize it.
WHAT WE DO
Defense law as strategic infrastructure
Allegra LAW supports defense-related activities across the full legal lifecycle – from market entry to complex cross-border transactions.
Defense Contracts
Structuring and negotiating defense contracts under Swiss law
Export Controls
Advising on export controls, licensing, and compliance
Procurement
Supporting procurement processes and interactions with Swiss authorities
Joint Ventures
Structuring joint ventures, supply chains, and international cooperation models
Regulatory Risk
Managing regulatory risk in sensitive or dual-use environments
Disputes
Representation in disputes and asset recovery
"We focus on clarity, foresight, and execution – always with an understanding of the political and operational context in which defense decisions are made."
OUR APPROACH
Pillar I
International defense transactions and Swiss legal structuring
We advise international defense companies on using Swiss law as a governing framework for complex, multi-jurisdictional projects.
Our role is to ensure that contracts, risk allocation, and dispute mechanisms are aligned with both commercial objectives and regulatory realities. Where appropriate, we combine Swiss substantive law with internationally accepted dispute forums.
WE SUPPORT:
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Cross-border defense contracts
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Supply and cooperation agreements
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Technology transfer and offset structures
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Market access to Switzerland, including procurement pathways
Our strength lies in translating Swiss legal stability into international deal confidence.
OUR APPROACH
Pillar II
Regulatory and compliance support for Swiss defense manufacturers
Defense companies based in Switzerland operate under close regulatory scrutiny – particularly where products may be used for military, training, or dual-use purposes.
WE ADVISE ON:
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Export and re-export compliance\
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Classification of civilian, training, and military use
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Engagement with regulators and authorities
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Risk mitigation in politically sensitive markets
Our goal is not only compliance, but continuity – enabling Swiss companies to operate internationally without unnecessary disruption.
Our Edge
FOCUSED, CONNECTED, CREDIBLE
Allegra LAW is a Swiss boutique firm built for complex, sensitive mandates.
Deep Understanding
Of Swiss defense regulation
International Experience
Deal experience and cross-border coordination
Trusted Network
Within Switzerland and abroad
Strategic Judgment
Discretion, precision, and strategic judgment
"We are not a volume practice. We work selectively, with clients who value clarity over noise and structure over improvisation."
Frequently Asked Questions
Key questions on Swiss defense law, export controls, and procurement.
How strict are Swiss defense export controls?
Swiss defense export controls are among the most rigorous in the world, governed primarily by the War Material Act (Kriegsmaterialgesetz, KMG), the Goods Control Act (GKG), and implementing ordinances. Exports of war material require prior authorization from the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), and approvals are subject to review based on the destination country's human rights record, regional stability, and Switzerland's foreign policy objectives. Dual-use items are separately controlled under the Goods Control Ordinance. Allegra LAW advises defense companies on export license applications, compliance programs, and risk assessment procedures to ensure that cross-border transactions comply with Swiss law while remaining commercially viable.
How does Swiss defense procurement work?
Swiss defense procurement is primarily conducted by armasuisse, the Federal Office for Defence Procurement, under the Federal Procurement Act (BöB) and specific defense procurement regulations. Major acquisitions follow competitive tender procedures, though in some cases direct awards are possible for strategic or confidential programs. Suppliers must meet technical, financial, and security requirements, and offset obligations may apply to significant foreign purchases. Allegra LAW supports companies in navigating the Swiss procurement landscape — from tender evaluation and bid preparation to contract negotiation and post-award compliance.
Does Switzerland's neutrality affect defense law?
Switzerland's neutrality is a fundamental constitutional principle that shapes its defense law in important ways. The War Material Act prohibits arms exports to parties in active armed conflict, and Switzerland applies a cautious approach to technology transfers that could affect the balance of power in conflict zones. However, neutrality does not prevent Switzerland from having a sophisticated defense industry or from participating in multilateral security frameworks, including UN peacekeeping, NATO partnerships, and research cooperation. Allegra LAW advises clients on how Switzerland's neutrality intersects with their commercial objectives, helping them structure transactions and compliance programs that respect Swiss neutrality principles while achieving business goals.
How are cross-border defense contracts structured under Swiss law?
Cross-border defense contracts governed by Swiss law benefit from Switzerland's robust and well-regarded legal system, which is a common choice for complex international transactions. Swiss contract law (Code of Obligations) provides flexible frameworks for risk allocation, liability caps, IP ownership, and dispute resolution. Switzerland hosts leading arbitral institutions including the Swiss Arbitration Centre and the ICC Court of Arbitration. Allegra LAW drafts and negotiates cross-border defense contracts — including supply and cooperation agreements, technology transfer deals, and offset structures — ensuring that legal frameworks align with the commercial and security objectives of all parties.
Can foreign defense companies establish operations in Switzerland?
Yes — Switzerland actively welcomes foreign investment, including in the defense sector, though subject to regulatory oversight. Foreign defense companies can establish Swiss subsidiaries, joint ventures, or branch offices, and may participate in Swiss defense procurement subject to offset requirements. Switzerland's political stability, access to skilled engineering talent, and proximity to key European markets and institutions make it an attractive base for international defense companies. Allegra LAW advises foreign companies on market entry strategies, regulatory requirements, structuring options, and ongoing compliance — ensuring a smooth and legally sound establishment in the Swiss defense ecosystem.
Defense requires trust.
So does legal counsel.
Defense projects are long-term by nature. Legal decisions made today shape operational freedom for years to come. Allegra LAW acts as a strategic legal partner – not only ensuring compliance, but enabling responsible growth in a changing security landscape.
If your defense activities touch Switzerland, we should talk.