The U.S. defense contractor Raytheon has been awarded a significant contract worth $22.9 billion for the production of Tomahawk missiles.

Major US defense contractors are racing to produce more affordable missiles at a faster pace, as the Iran war highlights strained inventories of critical interceptors like Patriots.

Israeli defense contractor Elbit Systems has reported an order backlog of $32 billion, with sales to the Defense Ministry accounting for 37% of its activity, driven by increased demand for munitions, drones, and intelligence systems.

The head of German defense contractor Rheinmetall is refusing to be intimidated by alleged threats, maintaining a firm stance as Germany boosts its drone security research following recent incidents and concerns over geopolitical tensions.

An analysis compares how the stock market is pricing two major defense contractors, RTX and Lockheed Martin, highlighting their financial standing.

German defense contractors are experiencing full order books as modern warfare, driven by drones, software, and artificial intelligence, transforms the industry and increases the importance of specialized start-ups.

Commerzbank CEO Orlopp advocates for constructive dialogue with Unicredit, while defense contractor Hensoldt reports a doubling of its orders. These are among the latest developments in the business sector.

The earnings reports from RTX and Lockheed Martin raise questions about whether strong guidance from these defense contractors can reset and positively influence the defense trade market.

US defense contractors are confronting Europe's growing initiative to prioritize local control and production within its defense industry, potentially impacting transatlantic arms trade.

German defense contractor Rheinmetall announced plans to more than double its gunpowder output at a plant in Germany.

A bipartisan initiative aims to micromanage defense contractors by restricting their stock buybacks, a move critics argue could deter investment in the industry.

Lockheed Martin's substantial $100 billion backlog indicates strong long-term demand for its products and services. This significant order book suggests continued growth and stability for the defense contractor.

Armin Papperger, CEO of German defense contractor Rheinmetall, stated that former German Chancellor Angela Merkel openly opposed supporting the domestic defense industry, believing Germany could rely on the United States in a crisis.

Japan's largest defense contractor warns that converting struggling European car factories into military drone production sites will fail and waste taxpayer money.

Defense companies and their trade groups are actively lobbying Congress to prevent the Pentagon from implementing a requirement to approve stock buybacks into law.

Government documents have disclosed that defense contractors including Rocket Lab and Lockheed Martin are partnering with SpaceX to develop a satellite network for tracking airborne threats.

A bill approved by the Senate Armed Services Committee would prevent defense contractors from buying back their stock without prior approval from the Pentagon.

One of China's largest defense contractors displayed a drone assembly line model at an international exhibition, suggesting plans to expand overseas drone production for Middle Eastern buyers.

This article compares investment opportunities in proven defense contractors, represented by ITA, against an active bet on the burgeoning space economy, represented by ARKX.

German defense contractor Rheinmetall has announced the divestment of its automotive business to private equity firm Aequita for €350 million. This strategic move allows Rheinmetall to focus on its core defense activities.

Defense stocks are expected to gain as the Pentagon faces an estimated $50 billion in war damage repairs, suggesting potential contracts and increased demand for defense contractors.

An article provides guidance on how to trade Lockheed Martin stock, specifically in the context of escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, suggesting market implications for defense contractors.

A report indicates that one-fifth of SpaceX's revenue is derived from U.S. government contracts, highlighting the company's growing role and potential disruption to traditional defense contractors.

Babcock, a defense contractor, is facing a £140 million financial hit due to necessary reworks on new Royal Navy warships. The company is responsible for delivering five frigates from its manufacturing site in Rosyth, Fife.

German defense contractor Rheinmetall is reportedly in talks with restructuring specialists regarding its automotive supplier division. Concurrently, the company has expressed interest in acquiring a 10-15% stake in the Romanian shipyard Mangalia.

German defense contractor Rheinmetall saw a strong increase in profit, but investors reacted negatively due to a slowdown in growth during the first quarter and plans for multi-billion euro acquisitions.

The US trade deficit increased to $60 billion, while German defense contractor Rheinmetall announced weaker-than-expected growth.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) is reportedly entering a 'new era' for defense contractors by significantly expanding its cloud capabilities tailored for the sector.

L3Harris Technologies has confidentially filed for an initial public offering (IPO) for its missile unit, signaling a strategic move for the defense contractor.

Northrop Grumman's stock experienced a significant drop this week, with analysts examining the factors contributing to the defense contractor's recent market performance.

Three under-the-radar defense contractors are reportedly building multiyear backlogs, suggesting sustained demand that could outlast specific geopolitical strategies.

German defense contractor Rheinmetall has signed a significant contract to become a supplier of attack drones for the Bundeswehr, despite previous criticisms of Ukrainian drones.

Financial commentator Jim Cramer shared his reasons for a favorable view on Lockheed Martin, indicating his positive sentiment towards the defense contractor.

Several defense contractors have secured a $1.84 billion Andromeda deal aimed at enhancing space surveillance capabilities.

Activist investor Wyser-Pratte has publicly criticized the Italian government's reported plan to remove the chief executive officer of defense contractor Leonardo.

A man employed by the US defense contractor V2X was killed in a drone attack on Erbil airbase in Iraq, raising concerns among colleagues about being placed in harm's way.

Leonardo DRS, a leading defense contractor, has been awarded a new contract from the Department of War, further solidifying its role in military technology and services.

Electric Boat, a defense contractor, has announced plans to take over the Crystal Mall space, leading to the mall's closure.

US defense contractor Palantir has demonstrated how artificial intelligence chatbots could assist military analysts in reviewing intelligence and generating potential battlefield plans.

Romania is reportedly planning to sell its Mangalia shipyards, with German defense contractor Rheinmetall expressing interest in a potential cooperation.

Pro-China network funded by Neville Roy Singham plans protest against Palantir Technologies in Miami Tuesday, targeting U.S. defense contractor.

Weeks after a new Democratic governor took office in Virginia, Boeing announced it is relocating its defense headquarters from Virginia back to St. Louis.

The United States plans to construct 11 new icebreakers, with contracts not awarded to any major defense contractors.

A Michigan-based group of Lebanese Americans has filed a class-action lawsuit against the US government and defense contractors. The lawsuit alleges abuses of rights during the Lebanon war.

Ondas has secured a tender from the Israeli Defense Ministry to develop advanced tactical attack drones for the IDF, outcompeting major defense contractors like Elbit Systems and Rafael.

David Barnea, who recently stepped down as Mossad chief after leading Israel's shadow wars against Iran, Hezbollah, and the Houthis, has made a swift transition to the private sector, joining a defense contractor.

Gellért Jászai, CEO of 4iG, held discussions in Washington with various government officials, as well as the leadership of major defense contractors Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman.

Palestine Action Canada has initiated a nationwide 'Day of Action' with coordinated efforts targeting suppliers of Elbit Systems. Activists received specialized training workshops to prepare for the logistics of targeting companies linked to the Israeli defense contractor.

German defense contractor Rheinmetall is reportedly in advanced discussions to take over the Mangalia shipyard in Romania, signaling a potential expansion in the region.

In an unprecedented move, China has placed Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, a Polish university, on an export control blacklist alongside defense contractors, citing links to the European security sector.

Defense contractors are reporting unprecedented backlogs of orders, indicating a significant ramp-up in military spending and demand for defense-related products and services.

The United States is implementing measures to make it more difficult for defense contractors to acquire materials from China.

According to McCaul, allowing Ukraine to build Patriot missile systems would serve the interests of defense contractor Lockheed Martin, indicating potential benefits for both parties.

Turkish Defense Contractor Seized Over Gülen Links Sold to State-Run ROKETSAN

Citi has reiterated its Buy rating on Northrop Grumman (NOC), indicating continued confidence in the defense contractor's stock performance.

An Al Jazeera report examines how defense contractors, energy companies, and investment banks saw significant profit increases as war and uncertainty disrupted global markets during the 'war on Iran'.

The headquarters of defense contractor Anduril is reportedly listed for sale, potentially as part of a $400 million defense property transaction.

General Motors has held discussions with defense contractors RTX and L3Harris regarding potential collaborations to increase munitions production.

The U.S. military is urging defense contractors to significantly reduce missile production time and costs, aiming to save hundreds of millions of dollars.

The Swiss state-owned defense contractor Ruag paid a ransom to hackers following a cyberattack, reportedly without informing the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (VBS). This action has drawn criticism, with some calling it a bad signal to criminals.

Lockheed Martin anticipates increased demand for missile defense, sustainment, and autonomous systems, indicating a positive outlook for the defense contractor.

Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, has reportedly sent a stark message regarding defense contractors, indicating a significant stance on the industry.

German defense contractor Rheinmetall is reportedly preparing its first public bond deal since 2010, signaling a move to raise capital in the financial markets.

A wealth advisor has reportedly invested $15.6 million in defense contractors, a move attributed to the ongoing conflict involving Iran.

German defense contractor Rheinmetall could secure a €12 billion contract from the navy, capitalizing on delays in the F126 frigate project to position itself as a potential solution provider.

Germany's largest defense contractor, Rheinmetall, achieved record revenues of €1.94 billion in the first quarter, an 8% increase from the previous year, with projections for full-year revenues to surpass €14 billion.

An investment analysis suggests that a diversified defense contractor offers a smarter long-term holding compared to an eVTOL company favored by Donald Trump, citing better stability and growth prospects.

A summary of General Dynamics Corporation's earnings call for the first quarter of 2026 was published, covering the defense contractor's financial performance.

An analysis examines two defense contractors frequently called upon by the Pentagon during the Iran War era and their implications for 2030-focused investors.

The U.S. government has called on a defense contractor to evacuate employees from Kuwait and Iraq, citing concerns over potential attacks by Iran-backed groups.

Germany's parliament has approved a significant contract with defense contractor Rheinmetall to supply loitering munitions, also known as kamikaze drones, to the Bundeswehr, indicating an acceleration in the country's defense capabilities.

German defense contractor Rheinmetall and aerospace company Destinus have announced a partnership to develop a new European missile venture. This collaboration aims to strengthen European defense capabilities.

RRPS, a German engine manufacturer, has received significant new orders for tank engines, including those for Puma, Boxer, and Leopard vehicles, as well as an engine for the new European main battle tank.

As Americans struggle amid the threat of higher inflation, Lockheed Martin, Shell and other companies are experiencing gains Two weeks into the US-Israel war with Iran, the White House was fielding…

Sweden has announced the purchase of new air defence and counter-drone systems from defense contractors Saab and BAE, bolstering its national security capabilities.

Morgan Stanley has reportedly delivered a significant message or analysis concerning the stock performance and outlook for Lockheed Martin.

The Pentagon has finalized agreements with several defense contractors to significantly increase the production of munitions, aiming to bolster military supplies.

AEVEX, a defense contractor backed by Madison Dearborn, has officially filed for an initial public offering in the United States.

Beyond well-known defense contractors like Rheinmetall, two smaller, less-scrutinized defense companies are identified as attractive investment opportunities, with one offering strong growth, particularly a drone manufacturer.

Italian defense contractor Leonardo is increasing its focus on digital defense initiatives and has subsequently raised its financial targets.

The White House is scheduled to meet with defense contractors to discuss strategies for increasing weapons production.

The Trump administration plans to meet with major US defense contractors to accelerate weapons production and replenish supplies following strikes on Iran and other military efforts.

A new ad from a progressive challenger, Nida Allam, attacks Representative Valerie Foushee over financial backing she has received from defense contractors and the A.I. industry.

Rise Of Europe's "War Unicorns" As Goldman Maps The Defense-Startup Ecosystem The "war unicorn" startup boom we pointed out the other week isn't just an American story. It's happening across the West, as defense startups built around dual-use technology could become the next hot bubble. Goldman analysts, led by Sam Burgess, told clients on Tuesday that European defense is seeing a "rise of the startups," which could reshape an industry long dominated by major defense contractors. Burgess said there are more than 380 defense tech startups across Europe, and these companies have raised over $3 billion, heavily focused on dual-use areas like AI analytics, autonomy, sensing, cyber resilience, and next-generation communications. He said these startups are clustered around major innovation hubs in London, Munich, Stockholm, Paris, and Helsinki, backed by early-stage investors and public programs, including the NATO Innovation Fund and the EIF Defense Equity Facility. Here's a visual breakdown of the EU defense startups ecosystem: "Recent conflicts, particularly the war in Ukraine, have underscored the need for rapid technological iteration, multi-domain integration, and a digitally enabled battlefield," Burgess said. Burgess' note is exactly on point and follows our view of the rise of war unicorn startups as big defense primes face an "adapt or die" moment, as the war in Ukraine and a surge in dual-use technologies (drones, ground bots, and AI kill chains) have pushed Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to recently announce a move to accelerate the fielding of this new technology. Translation: The DoW under Hegseth and the rest of the procurement process are moving away from bloated legacy defense primes toward defense tech startups, creating a boom as we've characterized by the rise of war unicorns like Palmer Luckey's Anduril Industries. The shift away from big defense primes in the DoW's procurement process comes as the war in Ukraine has given military planners and strategists an uncomfortable preview of what conflict in the 2030s could look like. It's not just about expensive stealth jets, bombers, and big, fancy missiles and cannons. It's about ground robots, drones, and consumer-grade products that can easily be weaponized. Professional subscribers can read the full note on Europe's rise of defense startups on our new Marketdesk.ai portal​​​​. Tyler Durden Wed, 02/18/2026 - 05:45

L3Harris Technologies has ousted Christopher Kubasik as its Chairman and CEO following an investigation into his conduct. The defense contractor announced the departure after the internal review.

Türkiye's top defense contractor Aselsan announced the successful test-firing of its newly developed Tolun P precision-guided bunker-busting munition, which accurately struck its target during a live-fire test.

Rheinmetall has revised its revenue forecast downwards following the cancellation of an order for F126 frigates. The German defense contractor cited the lost warship contract as the reason for the reduced expectations.

Türkiye has become one of a few countries capable of producing advanced military infrared detectors, following its top defense contractor's development of a new generation of electro-optical sensors.

Türkiye's state-run defense contractor Aselsan has successfully integrated its electro-optic reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeting system into the South African-developed Mwari aircraft.

The ongoing conflict in Iran is creating distinct winners and losers in the market, with defense contractors like Lockheed Martin benefiting while airlines such as American Airlines face challenges.

The head of Europe's largest defense contractor, BAE Systems, has issued a stark warning that the United Kingdom is complacent about the threat of war, which he believes has never been higher.

President Trump called for defense contractors to ‘do magnets’ repeatedly, insisting the US had the materials and the companies would make money

Former defense contractor Leonard Glenn Francis, known as 'Fat Leonard,' is reportedly seeking a pardon from Donald Trump, citing his battle with cancer and severe financial hardship.

The Swiss Army's M113 armored personnel carriers have been grounded multiple times due to defects, prompting investigations into whether the state-owned defense contractor Ruag made errors during repairs, a claim Ruag denies.

Lockheed Martin Corporation (LMT) is being highlighted as a powerful investment opportunity due to various factors. The analysis delves into the reasons making the defense contractor an attractive option for investors.

AeroVironment, a defense contractor known for its loitering munitions, saw its shares surge significantly after reporting strong performance, attributed to an 'asymmetric warfare boom'.

The cancellation of the F126 frigate project has dealt a significant blow to Germany's largest defense contractor, Rheinmetall, but suppliers are expected to be even more severely affected.

One of the UK's largest defense contractors, Babcock, reported a 19% drop in underlying operating profits, attributing problems with a key Royal Navy contract, including a 2019 frigate-building program, to Brexit and Covid-19.

A report indicates that General Motors is considering a venture to supply weapon parts to defense contractor Lockheed Martin, potentially expanding its manufacturing scope.

A previously overlooked defense contractor has transformed into a highly successful AI-related investment, reportedly turning a $1,000 investment into $14,000, with current opportunities for investors.

German defense contractor Rheinmetall is divesting its civilian 'Power Systems' division to Munich-based investment firm Aequita for 350 million euros, as it intensifies its focus on the defense sector.

Military experts and defense contractors convened in Vienna to discuss the future of warfare, particularly the role of drones, with an ex-US military official suggesting a necessary strategy change for the US.

Australian billionaire Gina Rinehart has reportedly built a $97 million stake in various U.S. defense contractors, diversifying her investment portfolio.

An analysis compares the revenue trends of major defense contractors Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, highlighting their financial performance in the industry.

German defense contractor Rheinmetall reported sales that fell short of analyst estimates, attributing the miss to a shift in revenue recognition into the second quarter.

L3Harris Technologies has confidentially filed for an initial public offering (IPO) of its missile business. This move indicates a strategic restructuring for the defense contractor.

Rheinmetall is set to undertake Romania's second-largest military acquisition through the SAFE program, valued at approximately 920 million euros. The German defense contractor will construct four pat

An analysis suggests that a conflict with Iran would likely lead to increased orders for major US defense contractors.

A commentary argues that artificial intelligence is turning tech companies into de facto defense contractors, making them central to modern warfare and potential military targets due to their data and capabilities. The piece emphasizes that the associated risks are currently underestimated.

German defense contractor Rheinmetall has won a €300 million order for drones from the German armed forces, a deal that follows its CEO's critical remarks about Ukraine's drone industry.

Austrian high-tech company Frequentis is experiencing a boost in business due to current geopolitical uncertainties, similar to defense contractors.

Former President Trump's suggestion of a $2.2 trillion defense budget has reportedly improved the market outlook for defense contractor Lockheed Martin.

An analysis compares the financial performance and investment potential of two major defense contractors, Lockheed Martin and RTX, for investors interested in the defense sector.

RH stock experienced a significant drop, while defense contractors Boeing and Lockheed Martin secured new deals with the Pentagon, indicating varied performances in the market.

Senators Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) have introduced a new bill aimed at codifying a Trump-era executive order, which seeks to crack down on stock buybacks and executive compensation for underperforming defense contractors.

South Korean defense contractor LIG Nex1 has partnered with Palantir Technologies to develop integrated artificial intelligence-driven defense solutions for the United Arab Emirates.

Honeywell’s stock fell after the defense contractor said some revenue that was expected in the first quarter could be delayed until May because of shipping disruptions in the Middle East.

An opinion piece argues that companies developing AI for military applications are effectively defense contractors and should not be allowed to obscure their role in AI warfare, citing examples from conflicts in Gaza and Iran.

Despite strong financial results, defense contractor Rheinmetall faces market pressure for even greater performance, indicating high investor expectations.

With U.S. weapons stockpiles reportedly strained, defense contractors Lockheed and RTX are scheduled to meet at the White House.

Employees say they have heard little from major defense contractor V2X Inc about safety and evacuation protocols Employees of major defense contractor V2X Inc on US military bases in Kuwait say they lack adequate bunker facilities and have had their pay reduced amid Iranian missile attacks across the Persian Gulf region, while receiving limited communication from their employer about safety and evacuation procedures. The Guardian interviewed three V2X employees on the US bases Camp Arifjan a...

German drone maker Quantum Systems, led by Florian Seibel, is striving to become a top defense contractor, challenging industry leader Rheinmetall, with an upcoming initiative sparking debate.

Defense contractor Leidos announced record cash flow and a significant $2.4 billion acquisition, signaling strong financial performance and strategic growth.