Defense Equipment Contracts regulate the procurement and supply of military and special-purpose hardware, weaponry, ammunition, and auxiliary equipment. This is a unique field of legal relations where, alongside the standard Civil Code, strict administrative and criminal regulations apply. Such agreements require detailed drafting of delivery terms (Incoterms), warranty, maintenance, and export-import permits. An error in equipment specifications or delivery timelines can lead not only to financial penalties but also to criminal prosecution. Legal.ge offers expert legal assistance to both local manufacturers and international suppliers to ensure the safe and effective execution of defense contracts.
What does this service cover?
Our service covers the full cycle of equipment supply:
- Contract Drafting and Negotiation: Preparing contracts compliant with Ministry of Defense or other security agency standards, including pricing and payment terms.
- Legal Analysis of Technical Specifications: Accurately reflecting technical parameters in contract annexes to avoid acceptance issues later.
- Acceptance Procedures: Legal support during inspection and goods handover stages, executing quality control acts.
- Warranty Obligations: Detailed regulation of warranty service, spare parts supply, and repair conditions.
- Permit Support: Obtaining permits for import, transit, and export of military products from the Ministry of Defense and Revenue Service.
- Force Majeure and Risks: Managing delivery delay risks and correctly formulating force majeure clauses (e.g., embargoes, war) in the contract.
Common Scenarios and Needs
The service is relevant for the following types of transactions:
- Armament Supply: Import and delivery of firearms, optical sights, or body armor for state agencies.
- Vehicles: Procurement and maintenance of military or dual-use vehicles (pickups, armored vehicles).
- Non-Lethal Equipment: Supplying protective shields, helmets, and special gear for police and special services.
- Spare Parts: Supplying components for existing military hardware under long-term agreements.
Georgian Legal Framework
The main regulators of the field are the Civil Code of Georgia (regarding work and supply), the Law on Defense, and the Law on Control of Military and Dual-Use Products. The latter establishes a special permit regime for the circulation of such products, issued by the Standing Commission on Military-Technical Issues of the Ministry of Defense. Breach of contract terms is also regulated by the Law on State Procurement, which provides for penalties and registration in the "Black List" for non-fulfillment of obligations.
Step-by-Step Process
The process begins with classifying the product (military or civilian). If the product is military, a permit must be obtained. Then, a draft contract is prepared and agreed upon with the client. Strict inspection is carried out upon delivery of goods. Signing the acceptance act confirms the fulfillment of obligations. During the warranty period, the lawyer ensures claims management.
Why Legal.ge?
Supplying defense equipment is not ordinary business; it is a high-responsibility field. Incorrectly executed documents can lead to cargo detention at customs or criminal liability. Legal.ge connects you with lawyers who have practical experience with military contracts and know how to protect your interests in dealings with the state apparatus.
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