Lockheed Martin Surpasses Earnings Expectations, Plans $9 Billion Acquisition of Sikorsky

Lockheed Martin reported a 6.5% increase in second-quarter earnings to $2.94 per share, exceeding analysts' expectations of $2.66 per share. The company's Q2 revenue rose 2.7% to $11.6 billion, also surpassing forecasts of $11.1 billion. Additionally, Lockheed Martin raised its 2015 earnings-per-share view to $11-$11.30, outpacing the consensus estimate of $11.23. The company's shares were up in the stock market following the announcement. Lockheed Martin also announced plans to acquire Sikorsky Aircraft, a leading helicopter manufacturer, for $9 billion. This move is expected to give Lockheed Martin a significant boost in the defense industry, as the company prepares for a potential three-year order for up to 500 F-35 fighter jets, worth an estimated $40 billion.

Key Takeaways:

  • Lockheed Martin's Q2 earnings increased 6.5% to $2.94 per share, beating analyst estimates of $2.66 per share.
  • Revenue rose 2.7% to $11.6 billion, surpassing forecasts of $11.1 billion.
  • Lockheed Martin raised its 2015 EPS view to $11-$11.30 from $10.85-$11.15 vs. consensus for $11.23.
  • The company will buy Sikorsky Aircraft for $9 billion, solidifying its position in the defense industry.
  • Lockheed Martin's aeronautics unit experienced a 7% year-over-year increase in sales due to higher F-35 production contracts.
  • The Pentagon plans to request a block-buy order for up to 500 F-35s, with a potential contract value of $40 billion.

Statistics:

  • Q2 earnings: $2.94 per share (6.5% increase)
  • Q2 revenue: $11.6 billion (2.7% increase)
  • 2015 EPS view: $11-$11.30 (raised from $10.85-$11.15 vs. consensus for $11.23)
  • Potential contract value for F-35 block-buy order: up to $40 billion
  • F-35 order volume: up to 500 planes

Sources:

  • Investor's Business Daily, Inc. copyright 2015
  • Thomson Reuters earnings forecast for Lockheed Martin
  • Lockheed Martin company report (no date)
  • Analysts' expectations for Lockheed Martin's Q2 earnings (no date)