Core Insights - RTX Corp.'s Raytheon segment has successfully tested the Barracuda mine neutralization vehicle in untethered, semi-autonomous mode, showcasing its capabilities in naval mine countermeasures [1][10] - The Barracuda program is set for initial operational capability by 2030, with RTX developing larger variants for broader missions [2] - The successful demonstration positions RTX as a leader in advanced defense technology, potentially attracting investors [3] Stock Performance - RTX shares have increased by 26.3% year-to-date, outperforming the Zacks Aerospace-Defense industry's growth of 21.3% and the S&P 500's return of 5.2% [4] - Other defense contractors like Boeing and General Dynamics have also seen notable gains, with Boeing up 28.1% and General Dynamics up 13.9% [5] Growth Catalysts - A steady flow of defense orders is crucial for revenue growth, with RTX securing $9 billion in bookings during Q1 [6] - RTX's defense backlog reached $92 billion as of March 31, 2025, indicating strong revenue growth prospects [7] - The long-term earnings growth rate consensus for RTX is estimated at 9.3% [7] - The commercial aerospace sector is also a growth driver, with Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney units showing year-over-year sales growth of 8% and 14%, respectively [11] Earnings Estimates - The Zacks Consensus Estimate for RTX's Q2 2025 revenues and earnings indicates improvements of 4.8% and 2.8% year-over-year [13] - Annual estimates for 2025 and 2026 suggest similar growth trends, although near-term earnings estimates have declined over the past 60 days [13] Valuation - RTX's forward 12-month price-to-sales ratio is 2.25X, higher than the peer group's average of 1.85X, indicating a premium valuation [19]