European Union security and defence transformation in an era of geopolitical change: strategic autonomy, innovation ecosystems, and sustainability

The European Union is undergoing a profound transformation of its security and defence policy in response to a changing geopolitical environment characterised by intensified strategic competition, geoeconomic fragmentation, technological rivalry, and the consequences of Russia's war against Ukraine.This article examines the principal drivers of this transformation and analyses the relationship between defence expenditure, defence-industrial development, strategic autonomy, and emerging mechanisms of collective defence governance.Employing a qualitative-quantitative analytical approach based on document analysis, comparative assessment, and secondary data analysis, the study argues that the current evolution of European defence reflects a broader adaptation to structural changes in the international system rather than a temporary response to a single crisis.The findings indicate that the effectiveness of rising defence expenditure depends on the ability of Member States to strengthen industrial capabilities, technological innovation, and collaborative procurement mechanisms.The analysis also highlights that security and defence influence the conditions for sustainable economic development, while defence investment contributes to innovation ecosystems, technological entrepreneurship, and the competitiveness of the European economy.