ARK Invest Europe launches ARK Space & Defence Innovation UCITS ETF
28 OCT, 2025
By Joanna Piwko from RankiaPro Europe
ARK Invest Europe has launched the ARK Space & Defence Innovation UCITS ETF (ARKX), Europe’s first defence-themed Article 8 active ETF. The fund invests in companies at the forefront of modern defence and space technologies, including artificial intelligence, robotics, autonomous systems, and advanced energy solutions. These innovations address rising defence spending, evolving hybrid threats, and the rapid expansion of the commercial space economy.
Launched on 23 October 2025, ARKX will begin trading on Deutsche Börse Xetra on 29 October, with listings on the London Stock Exchange, Borsa Italiana, and SIX Swiss Exchange following in the coming weeks. The ETF provides European investors access to ARK’s innovation-focused strategy, active in the US since 2021, focusing on dual-use technologies that serve both civilian and military markets, including low-cost launch systems, small satellites, and AI-driven autonomous platforms.
ARKX is unconstrained by traditional aerospace or defence indices and integrates a rigorous ESG framework, excluding controversial weapons, non-NPT nuclear programs, and companies generating significant revenue from fossil fuels, tobacco, gambling, adult entertainment, or alcohol.
Defence is entering a new era. ARKX provides actively managed exposure to the companies redefining security and strategic advantage in the 21st century.
Cathie Wood, Founder and CEO
