Leonardo sees strong growth in 2026, proposes 0.63 euro/share dividend

Core Insights - Leonardo is increasing investments in computing, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity over the next five years to become a significant player in digital defense [1] - The company aims to generate 21 billion euros ($24 billion) from its Michelangelo Dome air defense system over the next decade, with 6 billion euros expected between 2026 and 2030 [1] - Leonardo forecasts cumulative orders of 142 billion euros by the end of 2030, with a compound annual growth rate of 6.1% [1] Investment and Growth Strategy - The updated five-year plan responds to evolving threats, with a focus on advanced technology rather than traditional defense [1] - Revenues are projected to grow at an average rate of 9% annually from 2026 to 2030, reaching a total of 126 billion euros [1] - Core profits are expected to double from end-2025 levels to 3.59 billion euros by the end of the plan [1] Workforce Expansion - The company plans to hire over 8,000 employees by 2030, with more than half being under the age of 30 [1] - Leonardo emphasizes that human capital is a key competitive advantage in addressing complex and interconnected threats [1] Financial Performance - Leonardo anticipates approximately 25 billion euros in orders for the current year, an increase from 23.8 billion euros in 2025 [1] - Expected revenues for the year are around 21 billion euros, compared to 19.5 billion euros last year [1] - Earnings before interest, taxes, and amortization are projected to reach 2.03 billion euros by year-end [1]