Core Viewpoint - Lockheed Martin faces challenges as a century-old contractor, struggling to deliver returns that exceed market expectations due to its cost-plus contracting model and limited profit margin potential [1][14][16]. Financial Performance - In the second quarter, Lockheed Martin reported sales of $18.155 billion, which was flat year-over-year and below the expected $18.5 billion. The growth was primarily driven by the Missiles and Fire Control segment, which increased by 11%, while the Rotary and Mission Systems segment saw a decline of 12% [4][6]. - The operating margin significantly dropped from 11.9% in Q2 2024 to 4.1% in Q2 2025, largely due to losses in the Aeronautics and Rotary and Mission Systems segments [6][7]. - The company maintained its sales guidance for the year at $73.750 billion to $74.750 billion, with a year-over-year growth expectation of 4% to 5%. However, profit expectations were lowered due to $1.8 billion in project costs [8][9]. Future Outlook - Analysts predict that even if Lockheed Martin meets its sales targets, the growth rate will be below the 5% achieved in 2024, with actual growth remaining weak after accounting for inflation [9][10]. - Earnings per share (EPS) estimates show a decline of 21.86% for December 2025, followed by a rebound of 33.5% in December 2026, with a long-term growth rate of around 7% expected thereafter [10][11]. - Revenue estimates indicate a gradual increase, with projected revenues of $74.30 billion in December 2025, growing to $82.00 billion by December 2028, but at a declining growth rate [11]. Investment Considerations - Lockheed Martin may appeal to investors looking for short-term gains during undervaluation or those seeking stable dividends, but its long-term growth potential appears limited [12][16]. - The current stock price is $450, with a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 20, which is close to its historical low and about 6% lower than the five-year average valuation [13][14].