RTX (RTX) and Lockheed Martin (LMT) both raised their full-year financial guidance following strong second-quarter performances that included record backlog figures.
The two major US defense contractors reported results that exceeded expectations, prompting upward revisions to their respective outlooks for the remainder of the year.
RTX shares climbed 1.74% following the announcement, reflecting investor confidence in the company’s updated financial projections and pipeline of contracted work.
Lockheed Martin (LMT) shares rose 2.46%, outpacing RTX’s gain as markets responded positively to the defense giant’s improved guidance and backlog strength.
Record backlogs at both companies signal sustained demand for defense systems, weapons platforms, and related services across US and allied military customers worldwide.
The strong second-quarter results come at a time of elevated global defense spending, driven by ongoing geopolitical tensions and increasing NATO member commitments to military budgets.
Both companies have benefited from robust US government defense appropriations, with Congress continuing to prioritize military readiness and modernization programs across all branches of service.
A record backlog is a key indicator of future revenue visibility, meaning both RTX and Lockheed Martin have substantial contracted work already lined up to be delivered in coming quarters and years.
RTX, which produces a broad range of products including jet engines, missile systems, and avionics, has seen consistent demand across its Pratt & Whitney and Raytheon business segments.
Lockheed Martin, the maker of the F-35 fighter jet and a wide array of missile defense systems, continues to see strong international and domestic orders supporting its long-term revenue base.
The guidance increases from both defense primes reflect growing confidence among company leadership that demand conditions will remain favorable through the back half of 2026.
Analysts have noted that defense sector fundamentals remain strong, with both RTX and LMT positioned as primary beneficiaries of continued government investment in advanced military capabilities.
