Core Viewpoint - The U.S. government is showing interest in Lockheed Martin's "fifth-generation-plus" concept for the F-35 stealth jet, which aims to incorporate advanced technologies previously developed for a failed sixth-generation fighter bid [1][10]. Group 1: Government Engagement and Interest - Lockheed Martin's CEO, Jim Taiclet, indicated that there is active engagement with the Department of Defense regarding the upgraded F-35, with expectations for discussions to reach the White House soon [1][13]. - Taiclet noted that while there is no contract yet, the upgraded F-35 could achieve near sixth-generation capabilities over time if it remains under the Pentagon's current approved plan [1][10]. Group 2: Technological Advancements - The proposed technology for the new jet includes stealth coating, improved weapons, and a more advanced engine, which are characteristic of sixth-generation systems [2]. - The company aims to update the F-35 to match 80% of the capabilities of Boeing's sixth-generation F-47 fighter at half the cost [9]. Group 3: Market Position and Financial Implications - The new jet is expected to be considerably lower-cost than a sixth-generation fighter, potentially undermining the rationale for purchasing Boeing's F-47 [3]. - Following the loss of the sixth-generation fighter bid to Boeing, Lockheed Martin's shares dipped but have since risen approximately 8% [3]. Group 4: Future Projections - Taiclet projected that the U.S. could have around 1,000 to 1,500 fifth-gen-plus capable F-35s in the future, as two-thirds of the 2,300 ordered F-35s are intended for the U.S. and could be upgraded with sixth-generation technology [12]. - The sixth-generation F-47 is expected to be operational by the end of 2029, according to the U.S. Air Force chief of staff [14].

Core Viewpoint - Striking workers at Boeing Defense have rejected the company's latest contract offer, indicating ongoing labor disputes and potential operational impacts for the company [1] Group 1 - The rejection of the contract offer suggests dissatisfaction among workers regarding the terms proposed by Boeing Defense [1]

Core Viewpoint - Boeing's stock price has significantly declined, reaching its lowest level in over a month, and has underperformed compared to major indices like the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 [1] Summary by Relevant Categories Stock Performance - Boeing's stock has crashed in recent days, marking a notable decline [1] - The stock is currently at its lowest level in over a month [1] - Boeing has underperformed relative to broader market indices, including the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100, which have seen increases [1]

Core Insights - The company has faced various macro dynamics, including workforce challenges and an equity raise, but remains optimistic about its current position after a year of adjustments [2]. Group 1 - The CEO noted that there were not many surprises in the role, indicating familiarity with the challenges faced, particularly due to previous experience with Boeing [1]. - Significant challenges included a workforce halt in Puget Sound and navigating the tariff environment, which required strategic adjustments [2]. - Despite these challenges, the company has been actively working on improvements and changes, suggesting a proactive approach to management [2].

Group 1 - Northrop Grumman has delivered a second B-21 Raider stealth bomber to the U.S. Air Force [3] - The arrival of the new bomber at Edwards Air Force Base in California signifies progress in preparing the next-generation aircraft for service [3]

Good morning, everyone. So hi, everyone. Good morning. I'm Kristine Liwag, Morgan Stanley's Aerospace and Defense analyst. Very excited to host our next panel here with Lockheed Martin. So very excited to have on stage with us, Jim Taiclet, Chairman and CEO; and Evan Scott, CFO. Welcome, gentlemen.Question-and-Answer Session Kristine LiwagMorgan Stanley, Research Division So maybe we could kick off. Evan, you've got some statements to read. Evan ScottSenior VP & CFO Yes. Thank you. Statements made today ...

Summary of Lockheed Martin Conference Call Company Overview - **Company**: Lockheed Martin - **Industry**: Aerospace and Defense Key Points and Arguments Financial Performance and Guidance - Lockheed Martin expects **4% to 5% revenue growth** in 2025, with a backlog projected at **$167 billion** and **$6.7 billion** in free cash flow for the current year [6][6][6] - For 2026, the company anticipates **$7 billion** in free cash flow, excluding pension cash contributions [6][6][6] - The company plans to return **$6 billion** to shareholders in 2025, split between dividends and share repurchases [6][6][6] Operational Focus - The leadership emphasizes a strong focus on **financial and operational performance**, with multiple overseas and domestic visits to inspect production lines and engage with customers [5][5][5] - Lockheed Martin's products are reportedly performing well in real battlefield conditions, increasing demand from both U.S. and international customers [7][7][7] Government Relations and Defense Environment - The current administration is noted for its focus on **speed and effectiveness** in defense procurement, with an openness to change legacy processes [9][9][9] - Lockheed Martin has a strong relationship with the government, which is seen as a net benefit for the company and the defense industry [11][11][11] Budget and Growth Opportunities - The Department of Defense's modernization budget is expected to increase by over **20%** year-over-year in fiscal year 2026, which aligns with Lockheed Martin's expectations of low to mid-single-digit growth through 2027 [16][16][16] - New budget elements, such as Navy programming for PAC-3 munitions, present significant opportunities for Lockheed Martin [17][17][17] Golden Dome Initiative - The **Golden Dome** initiative is tailored for Lockheed Martin, involving key space sensors and integrated air and missile defense systems [19][19][19] - The company is positioned as a leader in integrated air and missile defense, with advanced technologies and systems in place [20][20][20] F-35 Program Insights - The normalized production rate for the F-35 program is expected to be **156 units per year**, with a backlog of **311 F-35s** as of Q2 [26][29][29] - Lockheed Martin has successfully won every fighter jet competition involving the F-35 over the past few years, indicating strong international demand [28][28][28] International Market Growth - Lockheed Martin anticipates that its international business will grow at least as fast as its U.S. business, driven by increasing international defense budgets [42][42][42] - The company has established a global production and operations network to support international sales and sustainment [40][40][40] Emerging Technologies and Partnerships - Lockheed Martin is open to partnerships with emerging tech companies to enhance capabilities and integrate new technologies into defense systems [53][53][53] - The company has made significant investments in venture companies to leverage digital technology and innovation [55][55][55] Future Opportunities - Key areas of focus for the next 12 months include air power strategy, munitions gap, and submarine combat systems [59][61][61] - The company aims to optimize cost and capability across all players in the industry, emphasizing collaboration with other defense contractors [60][60][60] Additional Important Content - Lockheed Martin has committed to transparency regarding classified programs and has reinvigorated its review processes to ensure accurate assessments [44][46][46] - The company is addressing cash flow headwinds from pension contributions and tariffs, with expectations of recovery over time [48][49][49] This summary encapsulates the key insights and strategic directions discussed during the Lockheed Martin conference call, highlighting the company's operational focus, financial outlook, and market opportunities.

Forward-Looking Statements Jim Taiclet, Chairman, President and CEO Evan Scott, Chief Financial Officer Thursday, September 11, 2025 8:30 a.m. – 9:05 a.m. PT Lockheed Martin Corporation Morgan Stanley 13th Annual Laguna Conference This presentation contains statements that, to the extent they are not recitations of historical fact, constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, and are based on Lockheed Martin's current expectations and assumptions. The words "belie ...

Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT) is among the 10 Best Space Exploration Stocks to Buy Now. Korea Zinc, the world’s largest zinc smelter, signed a memorandum of understanding with Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT) on August 25, 2025, to establish a China-free germanium supply chain. High-purity germanium made at its new Onsan facility will be supplied by Korea Zinc, and Lockheed Martin Corporation (NYSE:LMT) will be granted priority procurement rights. The agreement focuses on Korea-U.S. collabor ...

The stock closed at a new 52-week high on Wednesday. ...