3 Defense ETFs to Buy as Europe Rearming Cycle Accelerates Into 2026

European governments are pushing defense budgets higher than at any point since the Cold War, and three exchange-traded funds offer distinct ways to ride the spending cycle: the iShares U.S.

24/7 Wall Street • May 6, 2026

MISL Investors: Watch the FY27 Budget Bill Before the Next Rally

The First Trust Indxx Aerospace & Defense ETF (NASDAQ:MISL) exists to solve a concentration problem: anyone betting on the defense and aerospace cycle through a single name takes on F-35 program risk, 737 certification risk, or one CEO's execution risk.

24/7 Wall Street • May 2, 2026

1 ETF to Buy Before a $1.5 Trillion Defense Budget Hits

It's quite obvious now that military stocks are not going to tumble significantly anytime soon.

24/7 Wall Street • Apr 24, 2026

Disruptive Theme of the Week: ETF Ramifications of the Iran War

Since the start of Operation Epic Fury at the end of February, Brent crude oil prices have risen as high as $150 a barrel as the Strait of Hormuz has been effectively closed by Iran.  Panic over supply is driving energy prices higher, and consumers are experiencing it at the pump with soaring gasoline prices.

ETF Trends • Apr 14, 2026

Defense ETFs Likely to Rally as Trump Plans Spending Boost

Rising geopolitical tensions and Trump's defense push are fueling a long-term rearmament trend. One can explore ETFs to benefit from this outlook.

Zacks Investment Research • Apr 6, 2026

Should You Invest in the First Trust Indxx Aerospace & Defense ETF (MISL)?

Designed to provide broad exposure to the Industrials - Aerospace & Defense segment of the equity market, the First Trust Indxx Aerospace & Defense ETF (MISL) is a passively managed exchange traded fund launched on October 25, 2022.

Zacks Investment Research • Mar 30, 2026

Iran War: MISL And SHLD Should Get A Big Boost As America Rearms

First Trust Indxx Aerospace & Defense ETF is rated a buy, favored for its U.S.-centric exposure amid heightened defense spending needs. The U.S. and allies are rapidly depleting missile and interceptor stocks, driving urgent replenishment demand likely to benefit MISL's holdings. Drones will reshape war, and the United States must be wary of China.

Seeking Alpha • Mar 5, 2026

Aerospace & Defense ETF (MISL) Touches New 52-Week High

MISL hits a new 52-week high, surging nearly 90% from its low as geopolitical tensions fuel momentum.

Zacks Investment Research • Jan 16, 2026

MISL: Defense And Commercial Demand Will Fuel 2026 Gains

First Trust Indxx Aerospace & Defense ETF (MISL) has outperformed the market, benefiting from rising defense budgets and strong commercial aerospace demand. MISL's top holdings RTX, Boeing, and GE Aerospace are positioned to capture continued strong demand, thereby driving a buy rating for the fund. MISL's relatively high fees and low yield are offset by attractive valuations and capital appreciation potential.

Seeking Alpha • Dec 15, 2025

Guide to Aerospace & Defense ETFs

Defense spending hit a record $2.72T in 2024, boosting aerospace sector earnings as global tensions drive military budgets higher. ETFs like ITA, PPA and XAR are likely to gain.

Zacks Investment Research • Jun 5, 2025