Intra-EU transfers of defence related products are regulated within the EU by Directive 2009/43/EC (‘Transfers Directive’). The Defence Transfers Directive was adopted in 2009 and provided a significant step towards reducing barriers to intra-EU trade of defence related products as it encouraged the harmonisation and simplification of the EU framework for licences and procedures. However, several elements of the Directive are currently impeding its effective implementation, making it important to assess whether it is still fit for purpose.