Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Woodward reported record net sales of $915 million, an increase of 8% year over year, with earnings per share at $1.76, also up 8% year over year [7][20][30] - The aerospace segment achieved record sales of $596 million, a 15% increase from $518 million, with margins expanding by 140 basis points to 21.1% [7][20][22] - Industrial segment sales decreased by 3% to $319 million, primarily due to a 69% decline in China On Highway sales, while core industrial sales grew by 9% [23][24] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Aerospace segment earnings were $126 million, with margins expanding due to price realization and higher volumes, despite inflationary pressures [22] - Defense OEM sales surged by 56%, driven by increased demand for smart defense programs, while commercial services sales rose by 30% [20][21] - Industrial segment earnings decreased to $48 million, with margins at 14.9%, impacted by lower China On Highway volumes [25][26] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Aerospace services showed sustained strong growth, with legacy engine LRU overhauls increasing compared to last year [13] - Marine demand remained strong, with over half of new ship orders including alternative fuel specifications [18] - The gas turbine portfolio performed well, particularly in LNG and broader oil and gas applications, driven by growing global electric power demand [15] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is investing in a new manufacturing facility for the Airbus A350 spoiler actuation production, aligning with its organic growth strategy [10][29] - The acquisition of Safran's North American electromechanical actuation business strengthens Woodward's position in the industry [11][29] - Increased capital allocation to CapEx is expected in 2026 and 2027 to support future growth and productivity [12][29] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management remains optimistic about aerospace demand despite supply chain challenges impacting aircraft deliveries [12] - The company is focused on developing resilience against tariffs, geopolitical matters, and supply chain dynamics [19] - Future growth is anticipated in both aerospace and industrial segments, with expectations of continued strong performance through 2026 and beyond [18][19] Other Important Information - The company returned over $62 million to shareholders in the third quarter, with expectations to exceed $235 million in total returns for 2025 [28] - Free cash flow for the first nine months of 2025 was $159 million, down from $225 million, primarily due to increased working capital [27][31] Q&A Session Summary Question: Clarification on third quarter sales increase - The reported sales increase of 8% was clarified to ensure accurate understanding [33] Question: LEAP and GTF aftermarket volumes - LEAP and GTF aftermarket volumes are approaching legacy volumes, with a forecasted crossover around 2028 [35][36] Question: Sequential margin decline in Aerospace - The sequential margin decline was attributed to a mix shift towards lower-margin defense OEM products [38][39] Question: Details on aerospace investments impacting margins - Investments in manufacturing aimed at driving productivity were highlighted, impacting margin dollars rather than margin rate [42][44] Question: Pricing in the quarter - Total business pricing was approximately 7%, with aerospace contributing slightly more than industrial [53] Question: Marine demand and share gains - Marine demand is driven by customer share gains and increased shipyard orders [57] Question: Impact of Safran deal on results - The acquisition is seen as a strategic move to grow capabilities in the electromechanical actuation space [70] Question: China On Highway expectations - Expectations for China On Highway sales in Q4 are around $10 million, reflecting ongoing economic challenges [90][75] Question: Future growth outlook - The company anticipates continued demand in the defense sector through at least the first half of 2026 [86]