Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - CAE reported record revenue of $4.7 billion, an increase of 10% from the previous year [30] - Adjusted segment operating income reached $732 million, up 33% from $550 million in fiscal 2024 [30] - Free cash flow was $814 million, reflecting disciplined capital management [30] - Adjusted backlog increased to $20.1 billion, up 66%, indicating strong visibility and long-term stability [30] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Civil aviation revenue was $2.7 billion, up 11%, with adjusted segment operating income of $581.5 million, an increase of 6% [31] - Civil adjusted backlog reached a record $8.8 billion, reinforcing CAE's position as the leading training provider [31] - Defense segment revenue was $2 billion, up 8%, with significant improvements in adjusted segment operating income [34] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The global fleet of aircraft is expected to nearly double over the next two decades, with a demand for 300,000 new pilots in the next ten years [31] - Canada is set to reach 2% of GDP on defense spending this year, five years ahead of schedule, with a commitment to 5% by 2030 [34] - NATO is discussing defense spending targets as high as 5% in response to security concerns [34] Company Strategy and Development Direction - CAE aims to focus on long-term strategy, disciplined capital allocation, and creating sustainable value for shareholders [4] - The company is well-positioned to lead in defense and security markets, leveraging government contracts and modernization initiatives [34] - CAE plans to prioritize disciplined capital deployment and reduce leverage while generating strong free cash flow [39] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted the importance of customer relationships and the commitment to safety and performance as core values [41] - The fundamentals of civil aviation and defense spending remain strong, providing a solid foundation for future growth [39] - The new CEO emphasized the potential to leverage advanced defense technologies across CAE's portfolio [50] Other Important Information - The company underwent a leadership transition, with Matthew Bromberg appointed as the new president and CEO [6] - The adjusted backlog in defense doubled to $11.3 billion, reflecting strong market momentum [35] Q&A Session Summary Question: Role of the Executive Chair and collaboration with the new CEO - The Executive Chair will focus on long-term strategy and capital allocation while the CEO manages daily operations, ensuring a close working relationship [55][56] Question: Impact of American tariffs on CAE - CAE is well-positioned regarding tariffs, with approximately 70% of work done in-country and key products exempt under USMCA [59][60] Question: Timing of defense opportunities translating into revenue - Revenue from defense contracts is already being realized, although the procurement process can take time [62] Question: Profitability differences between civil and defense segments - Defense contracts often have limitations on profitability due to government regulations, but they provide stable long-term revenue streams [67][69] Question: Credit rating concerns despite stable business - The company has achieved deleveraging targets and is confident that credit agencies will recognize this progress [76][78]