In a significant move for the defense technology sector, German startup ARX Robotics has unveiled plans to invest a remarkable 45 million into establishing a new facility in the United Kingdom. This investment will support the production of advanced autonomous battlefield robots, designed for deployment in various conflict zones around the globe.

The new plant, which will be located at an undisclosed site in southwest England, is projected to generate a substantial output of 1,800 ground-based drones annually once it becomes operational. These drones, although resembling small tanks, are designed without weapons, showcasing a focus on non-combat assistance in military operations.

ARX's battlefield robots are equipped with treads for mobility and can be fitted with a variety of essential equipment, including radar systems, mine-sweeping devices, and even medical stretchers for transporting wounded soldiers. The largest variant of these robots has a capacity to carry military payloads weighing up to 500kg, effectively allowing for the transportation of injured personnel across the battlefield. Additionally, another model serves as a mobile target-practice device, providing a unique training tool in combat scenarios, while yet another variant is designed to carry aerial drones into combat zones.

The design of ARX's robots is modular, utilizing readily available off-the-shelf components. This innovative approach allows soldiers to repair these robots quickly and efficiently on the battlefield, often without the need for specialized tools. The drones operate autonomously, but can also be remotely controlled by military personnel through a user-friendly tablet interface, enhancing operational flexibility and effectiveness.

ARX's technology has already been tested in the field by armed forces from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Hungary, and the UK. Notably, in February, the company provided 30 of its robotic units to the Ukrainian Armed Forces, who are currently engaged in active combat, further emphasizing the real-world applicability and urgency of their innovations.

Marc Wietfeld, the CEO of ARX Robotics, highlighted the importance of this new facility, stating that it would contribute to the long-term technological sovereignty of both the UK and Europe. Wietfeld emphasized the current geopolitical climate, describing it as increasingly volatile and fast-moving, and underscored the necessity of advancing military technologies to bolster European resilience.

He articulated the company's vision: This is about strengthening European resilience, through technological sovereignty, scalable autonomy, and the modernization of land forces. This sentiment aligns with the broader trend of increased defense investments among European nations in response to escalating geopolitical tensions.

In March 2025, European Union leaders endorsed the ambitious ReArm Europe initiative, which aims to mobilize an impressive 683 billion (800 billion) over the next four years to enhance military capabilities across the continent. Additionally, the UK government has committed to raising its defense spending to 2.5% of its GDP, with plans for at least 10% of the defense budget to be allocated towards innovative technological solutions.

ARX Robotics aims to seize this political momentum to expand its operations and offerings in the defense sector. In welcoming the startup's investment, UK Secretary of State for Defence, John Healey, expressed his support, stating, It will create highly skilled jobs and support European security.

Founded in 2022 by Wietfeld alongside fellow German army veterans Stefan Rbel and Maximilian Wied, ARX Robotics has rapidly garnered attention and funding. Just last year, the company successfully raised 7.7 million (9 million) in seed funding from NATO's innovation fund, marking a significant step in its growth trajectory.

Marc Wietfeld is set to share his insights and vision for the future of military robotics at the upcoming TNW Conference, scheduled for June 19-20 in Amsterdam. Tickets for this important event are currently available for purchase, and attendees can use the code TNWXMEDIA2025 at checkout to receive a 30% discount on their tickets.