The Top 3 AI-Focused Defense Stocks to Put on Your Radar

Core Insights - The defense sector is shifting focus from traditional hardware to technological advancements in AI, unmanned systems, and space, driven by a new era of warfare [1][2][19] - Government spending is increasingly directed towards AI and autonomy, with over $13 billion allocated in the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Department of Defense budget [3] Lockheed Martin - Lockheed Martin is evolving to integrate AI and autonomous capabilities into its platforms, enhancing their role in a networked battlefield [4] - The F-35 Lightning II fighter jet exemplifies this strategy, functioning as a data-processing hub, contributing to a 12% sales increase in the Aeronautics division to $7.3 billion in Q3 2025 [5][6] - Lockheed Martin reported Q3 2025 sales of $18.6 billion and a record backlog of $179 billion, raising its full-year guidance and increasing share repurchase authorization [6][8] Northrop Grumman - Northrop Grumman is positioned as a leader in advanced systems, notably as the prime contractor for the B-21 Raider stealth bomber, which is designed for a high-tech battlespace [9][10] - The company reported a 14% sales increase in its Defense Systems segment, although it missed revenue expectations in Q3 2025 [10][11] - Northrop Grumman's market capitalization is around $85.6 billion, reflecting its strategic focus on autonomous and deterrent systems [12] RTX Corporation - RTX Corporation, through its Raytheon segment, is developing critical technologies for modern warfare, including sensors and smart munitions [13][15] - The Raytheon segment saw a 10% sales increase, driven by demand for air defense systems and missiles, with Q3 2025 revenue of $22.5 billion [15][17] - RTX's stock surged over 8% following strong earnings, reflecting investor confidence in its role in the defense ecosystem [18] Investment Considerations - The future of defense investing is centered on companies that excel in AI and software-defined capabilities, marking a shift from traditional production metrics [20][21] - Investors should monitor contract awards in AI programs and R&D spending on digital technologies to identify potential leaders in the defense sector [22]