Kratos Defense Q1 Earnings Beat Estimates, Revenues Rise Y/Y

Core Viewpoint - Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. reported a mixed performance in its first-quarter 2025 results, with adjusted earnings exceeding expectations but a decline in share price following the announcement [1][8]. Financial Performance - Adjusted earnings for Q1 2025 were 12 cents per share, a 9.1% increase from 11 cents in the same quarter last year, and surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 9 cents by 33.3% [1]. - Total revenues reached $302.6 million, exceeding the Zacks Consensus Estimate of $292 million by 3.6% and reflecting a 9.2% increase from $277.2 million in the prior-year quarter [2]. - Operating income was reported at $6.6 million, down from $7 million in the year-ago quarter [3]. Segment Performance - Unmanned Systems segment saw net revenues improve by 6.2% year over year to $63.1 million, driven by increased target drone sales [5]. - Kratos Government Solutions segment reported a 10% increase in net revenues to $239.5 million, attributed to growth in C5ISR, Defense Rocket Support, and Microwave Products businesses [5]. Operational Metrics - The company reported a consolidated book-to-bill ratio of 1.2-1.0, with bookings totaling $365.6 million and a total backlog of $1.51 billion, up from $1.45 billion at the end of 2024 [4]. - Selling, general and administrative expenses increased by 3.8% year over year, while research and development expenses rose by 4.2% [3]. Cash Flow and Debt - As of March 30, 2025, cash and cash equivalents totaled $263.7 million, down from $329.3 million as of December 29, 2024 [6]. - Long-term debt decreased to $172.2 million from $174.6 million as of December 29, 2024 [6]. - The net cash outflow from operating activities was $29.2 million during the first three months of 2025, compared to a net cash inflow of $0.7 million in the previous year [6]. Guidance - For Q2 2025, the company projects revenues in the range of $300-$310 million, while the full-year 2025 revenue guidance remains at $1.26-$1.29 billion [8]. - Operating cash flows are expected to be between $50-$60 million, with free cash outflow projected at $75-$85 million for 2025 [9].