Core Insights - RTX Corporation's Pratt & Whitney segment has secured a $1.61 billion contract for ongoing support of F-35 propulsion systems, which includes various sustainment services and maintenance tasks [1][3][10] Group 1: Contract Details - The contract encompasses sustainment services, program management, spare parts procurement, engineering assistance, software updates, and overall material management [1] - Maintenance and repairs will be conducted at F-35 production and operational sites, with technical data updates and training for propulsion systems included [2] - The contract is expected to be completed by November 2026 and will serve multiple branches of the U.S. military and foreign military sales customers [3][10] Group 2: Market Trends - Rising global geopolitical tensions are driving nations to invest in advanced combat jets, increasing demand for fighter jets and their engines, such as the F135 from Pratt & Whitney [4] - The global fighter aircraft market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.24% from 2025 to 2030, indicating strong growth prospects for the fighter jet market [5] - With over 7,500 Pratt & Whitney military engines in service across 30 armed forces, RTX is well-positioned to secure additional contracts in the future [6] Group 3: Other Defense Stocks - Northrop Grumman is noted for its advanced air systems and has a long-term earnings growth rate of 4.2% [7][8] - Lockheed Martin, a key player in military jets, has a long-term earnings growth rate of 12.4% [8] - Boeing, significant in the fighter jet market, has a long-term earnings growth rate of 31.3% [9][11] Group 4: Stock Performance - RTX shares have increased by 47.3% over the past year, outperforming the industry average growth of 20.6% [12]