Well, another sector to watch, aerospace and defense. American military capabilities were on display with Operation Midnight Hammer. 125 aircraft, including seven B2 stealth bombers.Some 75 missiles launched, including 14 GBU 57 massive ordinance penetrators, also known as the bunker buster bombs. Across two nuclear sites, another two dozen Tomahawk missiles launched from a submarine to a third site. It was the largest B2 operational strike in US history, the second longest B2 mission ever flown.following 9 ...

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - The company reported a backlog of 361 F-35 jets, with an additional 150 expected to be added soon, indicating a strong position in production [16] - The F-35 program accounts for approximately 30% of the company's revenues, with production rates expected to remain flat at 156 units per year [29][15] - The company anticipates low single-digit growth in F-35 production and sustainment, with high single-digit growth expected in sustainment as the number of deployed jets increases [30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - In Aeronautics, the F-35 sustainment is the largest growth factor, alongside F-35 production [12] - The Space segment is seeing growth in strategic missile defense, including hypersonics and fleet ballistic missile programs [12][73] - The Missiles and Fire Control (MFC) segment is expected to experience high single-digit growth, with potential for double-digit growth in some years due to strong demand [49] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - International sales accounted for 29% of sales in the missiles and fire control segment, with Europe being the largest growth area [51] - The company sees significant opportunities in the Middle East, particularly in air superiority capabilities for Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and UAE [7][9] - The company is focusing on international co-production opportunities, particularly in Europe and Asia Pacific [62] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to enhance air superiority capabilities and is exploring longer-term production and sustainment agreements to stabilize the supply chain [4][44] - The Golden Dome initiative is a strategic focus, with the company positioned to contribute across various areas, including space sensors and missile defense systems [5][66] - The company is advocating for a shift in government contracting to allow for more flexible and innovative approaches to defense procurement [79][82] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in the growth of defense budgets and the strategic approach of the government, which is expected to benefit the company [11] - The operational challenges include managing legacy contracts and supply chain issues, but the management team is focused on cost, quality, and schedule [6] - The company is optimistic about the future, particularly regarding the integration of new technologies into existing platforms like the F-35 [39] Other Important Information - The company is working on the Tech Refresh 3 (TR3) for the F-35, which is expected to enhance the aircraft's capabilities [22][24] - The company has made commitments to co-produce components in India, demonstrating a long-term partnership strategy [37][38] - The company is exploring the potential for classified programs, which are seen as long-term growth opportunities despite current cost pressures [58] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the growth outlook for the F-35 program? - The F-35 program is expected to maintain a production rate of 156 units per year, with strong international demand supporting this level even if U.S. orders fluctuate [14][15] Question: How is the company addressing supply chain challenges? - The company is actively working to improve supply chain resilience and is exploring partnerships to mitigate bottlenecks, particularly in solid rocket motors [56][57] Question: What are the expectations for international sales growth? - International sales are expected to continue growing, with a focus on Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East as key regions for expansion [52][53]