The pursuit of greater autonomy in defence has become a central theme in the Mediterranean, reflecting shifting geopolitical dynamics and evolving security threats. As regional actors seek to reduce external dependencies and enhance strategic resilience, they face complex challenges, including technological gaps, fragmented defence industries, and diverging national interests. At the same time, opportunities arise for deeper cooperation, innovation, and the development of tailored security architectures. How can Mediterranean countries balance national ambitions with collective security imperatives? What strategies can best foster both autonomy and effective multilateralism in the region?