The new Norwegian standard-form shipbuilding contract SHIP25 was adopted on 9 October 2025 following negotiations between the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association and Nordisk Defence Club, representing the shipowners' interests, and the Norwegian Shipbuilders and Wikborg Rein, representing the builders' interests.

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.

India’s free trade deals with Norway and the United Kingdom, alongside a newly introduced 250 billion rupee (approx. GBP 2.2 billion) Maritime Development Fund, offer substantial incentives and advantages for Norwegian and UK companies looking to do business in the Indian maritime sector.

Conversion contracts for ships and offshore installations involve modifying existing units to serve a new or modified purpose, often requiring extensive engineering, upgrades, and integration of new systems. Unlike newbuilding contracts, where components are developed to work together, conversion projects must adapt existing assets, which can introduce technical uncertainties.

Contract Law and Construction

Defence and Security

Dispute Resolution

Fisheries and Aquaculture

Offshore

Shipping

Shipping Offshore

Partner

Morten has long experience as advisor to clients within the shipping, offshore and energy industry. His practice focuses on commercial advice, negotiations and dispute resolution. His experience with dispute resolution covers major disputes before ordinary courts and arbitration, including ad hoc and institutional international arbitration. Morten has also substantial experience with military acquisitions. Morten is also one of the authors of the standard shipbuilding contract SHIP25. He is board member in the Norwegian Maritime Law Association, Norwegian Branch of CMI.

Morten is recognised by Legal 500 within the areas Maritime Law, Offshore Construction and Shipbuilding as well as Oil and Gas. Morten is ranked as Leading Partner within Legal 500 Offshore Construction and Shipbuilding;

"Morten Valen Eide is excellent in communication and strategy. His negotiation skills along with his knowledge of international business makes him a strong asset in negotiations."
Legal 500

Bergen

Leading partners

Next Generation Partner

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Morten has long experience as advisor to clients involved in the shipping, offshore and energy industry. His current practice focuses on strategic commercial advice and dispute resolution within the shipping, offshore and energy segment. He is the head of  our Shipping Offshore practice at the Bergen office.

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Recognitions

"Morten Valen Eide's expert industry knowledge and commercial skills are highly valuable assets."