Data sovereignty is crucial for global defense organizations, as it ensures sensitive information remains under a nation’s jurisdiction, which is vital for strategic autonomy and security. This principle is fundamental for maintaining secure operations and effective collaboration with international partners, despite challenges like fragmented standards and legacy systems. A data mesh approach, combined with open source technologies and Zero Trust frameworks, can enhance security and operational agility by ensuring data remains accessible yet protected. Additionally, AI plays a significant role in managing and safeguarding data, with Elastic offering solutions that promote interoperability, strategic autonomy, and compliance with data sovereignty regulations, enabling defense teams to act independently and efficiently.