<div id="readability-page-1"><p>As global tensions remain high and governments continue increasing military budgets, many investors are looking for simple ways to invest in defense companies. One way to do so is through Defense ETFs, which offer exposure to the sector without having to choose individual stocks. Three of the most widely followed options are:</p><h3>Claim 50% Off TipRanks Premium</h3><ul><li>Unlock  hedge fund-level data  and  powerful investing tools  for smarter, sharper decisions  </li><li> Stay ahead of the market with  the latest news and analysis  and maximize your portfolio's potential</li></ul> <ul> <li>The iShares U.S. Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (ITA)</li> <li>The Invesco Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF (PPA)</li> <li>The Global X Defense Tech ETF (SHLD)</li> </ul> <p>Although all three benefit from rising defense spending, they differ in both what they hold and how much they cost to own. </p> <h2><strong>How These ETFs Differ</strong></h2> <p>Starting with ITA, this ETF focuses heavily on the largest U.S. defense contractors, so its performance is closely tied to industry leaders such as Lockheed Martin (LMT), RTX (RTX), and Boeing (BA). Because these companies receive a large share of government defense spending, ITA often behaves like a direct bet on traditional military budgets. In addition, its relatively low fee of 0.38% makes it attractive for investors who want a stable, cost-efficient option for the long term. </p> <p>Meanwhile, PPA spreads its investments across a wider range of aerospace and defense companies, which reduces its dependence on any single firm. However, that diversification comes at a higher cost of 0.58%, which could slightly lower returns over time compared with cheaper alternatives. By contrast, SHLD takes a more modern approach by focusing on defense technology rather than traditional weapons systems alone. Its holdings include companies involved in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, robotics, space, and advanced military electronics. </p> <p>As a result, this strategy could offer stronger long-term growth as warfare becomes more digital and autonomous, although it may also lead to greater volatility along the way. Moreover, its mid-level expense ratio of 0.5% is higher than ITA but still competitive within the sector. Ultimately, investors looking for stability and the lowest fees may prefer ITA. At the same time, those wanting broader traditional exposure could lean toward PPA, while growth-oriented investors interested in new defense technologies may find SHLD the most appealing choice.</p> <h2><strong>Wall Street's Take</strong></h2> <p>Turning to Wall Street, out of the three defense ETFs mentioned above, analysts think that ITA has the most room to run. In fact, ITA's price target of $269.47 per share implies 11.7% upside potential.</p></div>

SHLD

ARKX

<p>As global tensions rise, investors are considering Defense ETFs for exposure to defense companies. The iShares U.S. Aerospace & Defense ETF (ITA) focuses on major U.S. contractors with a low fee of 0.38%, while the Invesco Aerospace & Defense ETF (PPA) offers broader diversification at 0.58%. The Global X Defense Tech ETF (SHLD) targets modern defense technologies with a mid-level fee of 0.5%. Analysts favor ITA for its potential upside of 11.7%, making it a stable choice for investors.</p>

ITA vs. PPA vs. SHLD: Which Defense ETF Should You Buy?