Auditing defence procurement contracts in the European context: an inter-country analysis

Abstract

The contract audit is an instrument facilitating the evaluation of prices offered and costs incurred in non-competitive defence contracts. In this study we analyse the degree of harmonization of contract auditing models among four European countries by means of a comparative analysis of the characteristics of contract auditing in these countries. We identify similarities and differences among the contract auditing models applied in these countries, and conclude that they do not present a high degree of harmonization of defence contract cost evaluation. Points for practitioners This comparative study highlights the similarities and differences among the audit models for defence contracts in four European countries (the UK, France, Spain and Norway). The authors present the main characteristics of each model and systematize the features inherent to a possible common model that could be achieved by harmonizing audit practices and the rules applicable to the corresponding cost calculations. Finally, the authors recommend further progress be made in harmonizing the audit practices applied in NATO countries for defence contracts.