Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - CAE reported record revenue of $4.7 billion, an increase of 10% from the previous year [31] - Adjusted segment operating income reached $732 million, up 33% from $550 million in fiscal 2024 [31] - Free cash flow was $814 million, reflecting disciplined capital management [31] - Adjusted backlog increased to $20.1 billion, up 66%, indicating strong visibility and long-term stability [31] 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% [32] - Civil adjusted backlog reached a record $8.8 billion, reinforcing CAE's position as a leading training provider [32] - Defense and security segment revenue was $2 billion, up 8%, with significant improvements in adjusted segment operating income [35] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The global fleet is expected to nearly double over the next two decades, with a demand for 300,000 new pilots in the next ten years [32] - 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 targets as high as 5% in response to increased security concerns, indicating a growing defense market [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 plans to leverage advanced defense technologies across its portfolio, including commercial aviation [50] - CAE will prioritize operational efficiency and capital allocation to generate strong cash flow and support strategic investments [50] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management highlighted strong fundamentals in both civil aviation and defense, with enduring demand and growth opportunities [40] - The company is well-positioned to deliver integrated training solutions that support modernization across multiple domains [40] - Management expressed confidence in achieving deleveraging targets and improving credit ratings in the future [81] Other Important Information - The leadership transition to Matthew Bromberg as the new CEO is expected to bring fresh perspectives and continued growth [6][46] - The company has a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and maintaining high standards of quality and safety [42] Q&A Session Summary Question: What is the 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 strong partnership [56][58] Question: How will American tariffs on Canada impact CAE? - CAE is well-positioned as approximately 70% of its work is domestic and key products are exempt under USMCA [61][62] Question: When will defense opportunities translate into revenue for CAE? - Revenue from defense contracts is already being realized, although the procurement process can take time [64][66] Question: Why is defense profitability lower compared to civil? - Defense contracts often have profit limitations due to government regulations, but they provide stable long-term revenue streams [72][74] Question: Why is CAE's credit rating not stronger despite stable business? - The company is focused on achieving deleveraging targets, which should positively influence credit ratings in the future [81][82]