Northrop Grumman Corporation operates as an aerospace and defense technology company in the United States, Asia/Pacific, Europe, and internationally. The company's Aeronautics Systems segment designs, develops, manufactures, integrates, and sustains aircraft systems. This segment also offers unmanned autonomous aircraft systems, including high-altitude long-endurance strategic ISR systems and vertical take-off and landing tactical ISR systems; and strategic long-range strike aircraft, tactical fighter and air dominance aircraft, and airborne battle management and command and control systems. Its Defense Systems segment designs, develops, integrates, and produces tactical weapons and missile defense solutions, and provides sustainment, modernization, and training services for manned and unmanned aircraft and electronics systems. It also offers integrated, all-domain command, and control battle management systems, precision strike weapons; high speed air-breathing and hypersonic systems; high-performance gun systems, ammunition, precision munitions and advanced fuzes; aircraft and mission systems logistics support, sustainment, operations and modernization; and warfighter training services. The company's Mission Systems segment offers command, control, communications and computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems; radar, electro-optical/infrared and acoustic sensors; electronic warfare systems; advanced communications and network systems; cyber solutions; intelligence processing systems; navigation; and maritime power, propulsion, and payload launch systems. Its Space Systems segment offers satellites, spacecraft systems, subsystems, sensors, and payloads; ground systems; missile defense systems and interceptors; launch vehicles and related propulsion systems; and strategic missiles. Northrop Grumman Corporation was founded in 1939 and is based in Falls Church, Virginia.

Northrop Grumman Corporation демонстрирует сильные финансовые показатели, с высоким уровнем прибыли и выручки, значительно превышающими медианные значения по отрасли. Показатели рентабельности, такие как ROE (26.04%) и net profit margin (9.82%), находятся на высоком уровне, что свидетельствует о хорошей эффективности управления. Однако, компания сталкивается с высокими мультипликаторами, такими как P/E (23.78), что указывает на потенциальное переоценение. Кроме того, текущие коэффициенты ликвидности (current_ratio 1.11) и долговая нагрузка (debt_equity_ratio 0.95) находятся ниже медианных значений, что может представлять риски в условиях нестабильного рынка. Снижение дивидендной доходности до 0.32 также может повлиять на привлекательность для инвесторов. Тем не менее, устойчивый рост выручки и чистой прибыли за последние несколько лет подтверждает положительный тренд компании. В целом, несмотря на некоторые негативные аспекты, такие как высокая оценка по мультипликаторам и долговая нагрузка, Northrop Grumman сохраняет сильные позиции на рынке благодаря своим финансовым результатам и рентабельности.

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Lockheed Martin LMT is actively expanding its missile production capacity through increased manufacturing, supply-chain investments and major program wins. With rising global defense demand, the company is scaling its operations to support the United States and its allies.
Lockheed Martin has a strong portfolio of proven missile systems, including the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3), Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD), Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) and the Javelin anti-tank missile. To meet growing demand, the company is ramping up production. In a press release on March 26, 2026, LMT highlighted efforts to strengthen its supplier network, expand tooling and improve manufacturing readiness to support higher output.
The company is also increasing production of its Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM). On March 25, 2026, LMT announced a framework agreement to boost PrSM output, which is expected to quadruple production capacity, building on an earlier $4.94 billion contract. This highlights a significant expansion in its missile manufacturing capabilities.
Moreover, Lockheed Martin is investing in infrastructure to speed up development and production. On March 31, 2026, LMT announced the opening of its Rapid Fielding Center, a facility designed to streamline development, testing and prototype production. This integrated setup helps reduce costs and enables faster delivery of new systems.
Overall, through higher production rates, expanded supply-chain capabilities, new facilities and strong contract momentum, Lockheed Martin is clearly expanding its missile production capacity to support long-term growth.
Other Stocks to Keep on the Watchlist
Other aerospace companies that are expanding their missile production are discussed below:
RTX Corporation RTX: RTX is expanding its missile production capabilities through investments. In March 2026, the company announced a 26,000 square-foot expansion of its Redstone Missile Integration Facility, supported by a $115 million investment. This expansion is expected to increase the facility’s integration and delivery capacity by more than 50%, highlighting RTX’s efforts to scale up its missile operations.
Northrop Grumman NOC: The company is expanding its missile-related production capabilities through new infrastructure investments. In April 2025, the company opened its Enhanced Production and Integration Center (EPIC) in Alabama, a large-scale facility designed to support high-rate production programs. The center increases production capacity for key missile defense systems like the Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS), highlighting NOC’s efforts to scale its manufacturing and integration capabilities.
The Zacks Rundown for LMT
Shares of LMT have surged 35.8% in the past year compared with the industry’s 27.1% growth.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The company shares are trading at a discount on a relative basis, with its forward 12-month Price/Earnings being 20.24X compared with its industry’s average of 31.39X.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for LMT’s 2026 and 2027 earnings has moved north over the past 60 days.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
LMT stock currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Beyond Nvidia: AI's Second Wave Is Here
The AI revolution has already minted millionaires. But the stocks everyone knows about aren't likely to keep delivering the biggest profits. Little-known AI firms tackling the world's biggest problems may be more lucrative in the coming months and years.
See
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Is Lockheed Martin Expanding Its Missile Production Capacity?

Fintel reports that on April 1, 2026, Wells Fargo initiated coverage of Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC) with a Overweight recommendation.
Analyst Price Forecast Suggests 9.14% Upside
As of March 27, 2026, the average one-year price target for Northrop Grumman is $744.59/share. The forecasts range from a low of $610.04 to a high of $855.75. The average price target represents an increase of 9.14% from its latest reported closing price of $682.24 / share.
See our leaderboard of companies with the largest price target upside.
The projected annual revenue for Northrop Grumman is 41,389MM, a decrease of 1.35%. The projected annual non-GAAP EPS is 26.45.
What is the Fund Sentiment?
There are 1,803 funds or institutions reporting positions in Northrop Grumman. This is an decrease of 737 owner(s) or 29.02% in the last quarter. Average portfolio weight of all funds dedicated to NOC is 0.17%, an increase of 39.22%. Total shares owned by institutions decreased in the last three months by 21.08% to 116,929K shares. The put/call ratio of NOC is 0.97, indicating a bullish outlook.
What are Other Shareholders Doing?
Capital International Investors holds 11,478K shares representing 8.09% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 11,763K shares , representing a decrease of 2.49%. The firm decreased its portfolio allocation in NOC by 11.31% over the last quarter.
Capital World Investors holds 3,434K shares representing 2.42% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 2,464K shares , representing an increase of 28.25%. The firm increased its portfolio allocation in NOC by 29.85% over the last quarter.
Geode Capital Management holds 3,149K shares representing 2.22% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 3,132K shares , representing an increase of 0.57%. The firm decreased its portfolio allocation in NOC by 51.43% over the last quarter.
Franklin Resources holds 3,125K shares representing 2.20% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 2,996K shares , representing an increase of 4.12%. The firm decreased its portfolio allocation in NOC by 84.61% over the last quarter.
Wellington Management Group Llp holds 2,801K shares representing 1.97% ownership of the company. In its prior filing, the firm reported owning 4,270K shares , representing a decrease of 52.46%. The firm decreased its portfolio allocation in NOC by 38.50% over the last quarter.
Fintel is one of the most comprehensive investing research platforms available to individual investors, traders, financial advisors, and small hedge funds.
Our data covers the world, and includes fundamentals, analyst reports, ownership data and fund sentiment, options sentiment, insider trading, options flow, unusual options trades, and much more. Additionally, our exclusive stock picks are powered by advanced, backtested quantitative models for improved profits.
This story originally appeared on Fintel.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Wells Fargo Initiates Coverage of Northrop Grumman (NOC) with Overweight Recommendation

Rocket Lab Corporation RKLB is building a credible multi-year growth setup, helped by durable government demand and a staged backlog that supports near-term visibility.
The tradeoff is straightforward. The company has improving scale and liquidity, but near-term execution risk remains elevated due to development timelines, mix-driven margin variability, and supplier constraints that can shift milestone pacing.
Rocket Lab Stock Setup: The Bull and Bear Ledger
On the bullish side, Rocket Lab is gaining from defense urgency that is expanding addressable opportunities across both launch and space systems. Backlog reached roughly $1.85 billion at the end of the fourth quarter of 2025, with management expecting about 37% to convert within 12 months, which helps anchor a base-level revenue ramp.
On the bearish side, the path is not linear. Neutron’s schedule has moved out, Space Systems mix can compress percentage margins even as revenue grows, and subcontractor deliveries can gate program conversion. Those factors raise the premium the market places on steady execution.
RKLB Defense Demand Adds Durable Volume
Defense demand is showing up as a concrete set of catalysts. In 2025, Rocket Lab flew three HASTE hypersonic missions and signaled additional HASTE missions in 2026, positioning HASTE as a repeatable source of launch volume as government priorities scale.
Space Systems is also benefiting. The company won an SDA Tranche III Tracking Layer prime contract in the fourth quarter of 2025, adding multi-year visibility tied to staged program milestones. Rocket Lab also secured a Missile Defense Agency SHIELD IDIQ, which expands access to future awards and keeps the funnel active beyond a single program cycle.
Rocket Lab Revenue Mix Supports Scale, Not Smoothness
Rocket Lab’s revenue mix supports scale, but it does not guarantee clean quarterly margins. In 2025, Space Systems generated $402.8 million, or 66.9% of total revenue, versus $199 million from Launch Services. That mix reflects the company’s growing manufacturing and components footprint alongside a higher Electron cadence.
Management’s first-quarter 2026 gross margin guidance captured that dynamic, with GAAP gross margin guided to 34-36% and non-GAAP gross margin to 39-41%, modestly lower due to mix. The company’s setup can still produce expanding margin dollars over time, but the journey can be volatile along the way.
RKLB Neutron Delay Extends Cash Burn Risk
Neutron remains the key swing factor, and the timeline has moved out. The first launch is now targeted for the fourth quarter of 2026 following a Stage 1 tank rupture in January 2026, extending development timelines and keeping execution sensitivity high.
The near-term economics are also pressured. Early Neutron flights are expected to carry low or negative gross margins, with profitability improving only as production scales over several years. That profile extends the period where losses remain likely, even as the long-term opportunity expands the company’s addressable launch market.
Rocket Lab Cash Use Peaks Before the Shift
Rocket Lab has strong liquidity with about $1.1 billion in cash, supported by fundraising and reduced debt, but is currently in a heavy investment phase. Near-term cash burn remains high due to Neutron development, with continued negative free cash flow and expected EBITDA losses in early 2026.
Rocket Lab Corporation Price and Consensus
RKLB Decision Framework for Investors
A hold posture is supported by three pillars: strong liquidity, backlog-driven visibility, and a scaling cadence across Electron and HASTE. Electron ran with 100% mission success in 2025, and management expects 2026 Electron and HASTE launches to exceed 2025’s 21, supported by an internal operating rhythm of roughly every 11-13 days.
What would need to improve is equally clear. Investors will likely look for tighter confidence around the Neutron timeline, evidence that supplier gating and optical bottlenecks are easing, and a steadier margin trajectory as Space Systems programs ramp. The Mynaric acquisition remains under European regulatory review without a timeline, which delays full control of a key optical link and keeps milestone pacing exposed to third-party delivery schedules.
For context across the broader aerospace and defense landscape, Lockheed Martin LMT currently carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), while Northrop Grumman NOC holds a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell). RKLB currently has a Zacks Rank #3. You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. These primes help illustrate how investor focus can shift between demand strength and execution discipline, a balance that is central to Rocket Lab’s current setup.
Research Chief Names "Single Best Pick to Double"
From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all.
This company targets millennial and Gen Z audiences, generating nearly $1 billion in revenue last quarter alone. A recent pullback makes now an ideal time to jump aboard. Of course, all our elite picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Nano-X Imaging which shot up +129.6% in little more than 9 months.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Rocket Lab Stock: Neutral View Amid Strong Demand and Execution Risks

Rocket Lab Corporation RKLB enters 2026 with a clearer revenue foundation than it had in prior years. The company is pairing a large contracted backlog with a higher operating tempo in Electron and HASTE.
That combination matters because it links near-term execution to measurable conversion math. It also helps explain why quarterly results can look uneven even when multi-year demand remains intact.
RKLB Backlog Sets a Clear 2026 Baseline
RKLB ended fourth-quarter 2025 with roughly $1.85 billion of backlog, up sharply year over year. Management expects about 37% of that backlog to convert within 12 months, including conservative assumptions tied to Space Development Agency Tranche III work.
For investors, that 12-month conversion expectation is the key anchor. It provides a tangible baseline for 2026 revenue visibility, especially when paired with steady milestone payments embedded in staged programs. In practical terms, it reduces the dependence on “one-off” wins to support the next year’s revenue ramp.
Rocket Lab’s Two Engines of Growth
RKLB’s 2025 results underline how the model is built to balance program execution and launch cadence. Total revenue was $601.8 million in 2025, up 38% from $436.2 million in 2024.
Space Systems was the larger contributor at $402.8 million, or 66.9% of 2025 revenue. Launch Services contributed $199.0 million, or 33.1%. The mix reflects growth in spacecraft manufacturing alongside higher Electron cadence and improved launch pricing, with revenue per launch rising to $8.5 million in 2025 from $7.8 million in 2024.
RKLB Launch Cadence Is Scaling Faster
Launch Services momentum strengthened into year-end. Fourth-quarter 2025 delivered record launch activity with seven missions, up from four in the third quarter, helping Launch Services revenue reach $75.9 million, up 85% sequentially.
The cadence outlook also benefits from mix. HASTE missions are described as carrying broadly similar margin percentages but higher absolute margin dollars, which can support gross profit even when percentage margins move with quarterly mix.
Rocket Lab’s Space Systems Mix Drives Timing
Space Systems is RKLB’s larger revenue engine, but it can create choppy quarterly optics because major programs recognize revenue on a staged basis. In fourth-quarter 2025, Space Systems revenue was $103.8 million, down 9% sequentially due to program timing, even though full-year Space Systems revenue rose 30% year over year.
This is especially relevant with Space Development Agency work. The backlog mix at quarter-end was approximately 74% Space Systems and 26% Launch. With large programs such as SDA Tranche II and Tranche III, milestones can shift across quarters based on delivery timing, changing reported momentum without changing the underlying multi-year demand profile.
RKLB Liquidity Helps Bridge the Buildout
RKLB ended fourth-quarter 2025 with approximately $1.10 billion of liquidity in cash and marketable securities, up from $480 million at 2024-end. That liquidity supports elevated 2026 investment as the company builds toward its next phase.
Management points to funding needs tied to Neutron testing, pad activation, and recovery infrastructure, alongside working capital and acquisition-related spending. The capital plan matters because first-quarter 2026 is expected to mark peak research and development spending, with spending shifting from research and development toward flight inventory through 2026 as the buildout progresses.
Rocket Lab’s Near-Term Setup and Key Watch Items
RKLB’s stance remains Neutral, reflecting a sound multi-year setup with meaningful execution risk. A practical checklist starts with backlog conversion pace versus the roughly 37% expected within 12 months. Next is cadence execution, with Electron running every 11 to 13 days internally and 2026 launches expected to exceed 2025’s 21.
Third is supplier gating, particularly optical terminal availability, which has been cited as a constraint that can push Space Systems milestones across quarters. Finally, investors should track quarterly mix effects on margins, since larger SDA-linked Space Systems programs typically carry lower percentage margins and can drive volatility even as scale improves.
For context, broader aerospace and defense spending often lifts multiple players at once. Lockheed Martin LMT and Northrop Grumman NOC are two large defense primes with significant exposure to U.S. national security priorities, a backdrop that can influence budgeting and procurement momentum across the ecosystem.
Price Performance
In the past six months, shares of the company have risen 22.4% against the industry’s 4.9% decline.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
Zacks Rank
RKLB currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Research Chief Names "Single Best Pick to Double"
From thousands of stocks, 5 Zacks experts each have chosen their favorite to skyrocket +100% or more in months to come. From those 5, Director of Research Sheraz Mian hand-picks one to have the most explosive upside of all.
This company targets millennial and Gen Z audiences, generating nearly $1 billion in revenue last quarter alone. A recent pullback makes now an ideal time to jump aboard. Of course, all our elite picks aren’t winners but this one could far surpass earlier Zacks’ Stocks Set to Double like Nano-X Imaging which shot up +129.6% in little more than 9 months.
Free: See Our Top Stock And 4 Runners Up
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Rocket Lab's Backlog Provides a Clear Path to 2026 Revenue Growth

Key Points
NASA may halt SLS launches after the Artemis V launch.
The new plan would have Lockheed's Orion hitch rides with SpaceX HLS to the moon.
Changes aren't final yet, but could mean tens of billions of lost revenue for Boeing.
Once upon a time, NASA's moon ambitions promised to pave a Milky Way to profits for Boeing (NYSE: BA). Collaborating with fellow big space companies, including Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) and Northrop Grumman (NYSE: NOC), to launch as many as 20 Space Launch System megarockets to the moon at $4.1 billion a pop, Boeing stood in line to share in some $82 billion in revenue across 20 missions under NASA's Project Artemis.
But no longer.
Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue »
Bloomberg spills the beans
As Bloomberg reported last week, NASA is revising plans for future moon missions. Instead of paying Boeing to launch an SLS rocket to propel a Lockheed Martin Orion spacecraft into lunar orbit -- there to dock with a SpaceX Human Landing System (HLS) for landing -- NASA now sees a simpler way to get astronauts from Earth to the moon.
The existing framework -- SLS launching Orions, Orions docking with HLSes near the moon, and so on -- will still be used for the Artemis IV and V moon landings taking place in 2028 and 2029. But beginning with Artemis VI, the plan will be to launch Orion atop a smaller rocket and have Orion dock with HLS in Earth orbit. Orion and HLS will then travel in tandem to the moon, with HLS providing the propulsion. There, astronauts will transfer from Orion to HLS, descend to the moon, ascend from the moon, redock, and retransfer.
Finally, Orion will return to Earth alone.
The advantage of this new approach is Orion won't be traveling as far under its own power, it won't need a rocket as big (or expensive) as SLS to give it an initial boost. A smaller Vulcan Centaur rocket (built 50-50 by Boeing and Lockheed) might not be able to send Orion all the way to the moon, but should suffice to put Orion in Earth orbit, at which point HLS could take over.
So could a SpaceX Falcon 9 or Falcon Heavy, or a New Glenn rocket from Blue Origin.
Of course, the disadvantage from Boeing's perspective is that, instead of charging NASA $3 billion (roughly SLS' share of an Artemis mission cost) for each launch, it will only be able to charge a smaller fee for a Vulcan launch -- on the order of $110 million. And it will only get even that much if SpaceX or Blue Origin doesn't offer to do the launch for cheaper.
Pick your poison. Either option means less money for Boeing, and much less than $82 billion for the entire Artemis project.
The Lockheed Martin corollary
Nor is Boeing the only space company put at risk by this new NASA plan. If SLS is no longer necessary to fulfill Project Artemis's mission, is Orion?
After all, the Orion spacecraft's primary purpose is to keep astronauts alive en route to lunar orbit; it cannot descend to the moon on its own. Theoretically, a SpaceX Crew Dragon could fulfill the same function as Orion (crew quarters en route to the moon), thereby removing the need for Lockheed to build Orion.
It's even possible no second spaceship at all would be needed. HLS might be able to carry astronauts into Earth orbit, then to lunar orbit, then down to the moon, up again, back to Earth, and finally land on Earth (where Mechazilla's space chopsticks could catch it).
What it means for investors
Admittedly, this isn't all quite as simple as I've sketched out above. Orion, for example, was designed to be compatible with SLS, and only SLS. It would need to be modified to make it compatible with alternative rockets, but that obstacle shouldn't be insurmountable. Orion was also designed with a robust heat shield to enable it to survive reentry into Earth's atmosphere at insanely high speeds -- which neither Crew Dragon nor HLS were designed to survive. More redesign work would surely be needed for this option as well.
Still, the main point remains: NASA wants to make moon missions more affordable. SLS and Orion, as currently designed and priced, interfere with this goal. Under the leadership of new NASA head Jared Isaacman, the space agency seems motivated to find more economical solutions that will enable mission success at an affordable price. Lucky for SpaceX, a working HLS could offer one viable solution, at a very attractive price -- and just in time for the SpaceX IPO.
Boeing and Lockheed shareholders won't be happy about any of this, but with potentially tens of billions of dollars in savings at stake, Isaacman has a huge incentive to start cutting Boeing and Lockheed out of the loop.
Should you buy stock in Boeing right now?
Before you buy stock in Boeing, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Boeing wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $503,861!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,026,987!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 884% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 179% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of March 30, 2026.
Rich Smith has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Boeing. The Motley Fool recommends Lockheed Martin. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

NASA May X Out Boeing's SLS Rocket Ship From Future Moon Landings

Key Points
Administrator Jared Isaacman revamped NASA's plan for space exploration on Tuesday.
Dozens of moon landings, private space stations, and a nuclear-powered spacecraft are all part of it.
Hand it to Jared Isaacman. Barely three months after being confirmed by the Senate as NASA's 15th administrator, the space agency's new boss has really hit the ground running -- and he's planning to take America on a giant leap into space.
On Tuesday this week, NASA held an Ignition event outlining its plans for space exploration over the next five years. Here are just a few of the things Isaacman outlined at this event.
Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue »
Omnis Artemis in tres partes divisa est
First and foremost, we're going back to the moon -- and this restyled Project Artemis project is divided into three parts.
In phase 1, which begins now, NASA will proceed with plans to launch its Space Launch System rocket (SLS, built by Boeing (NYSE: BA)) and send a crewed Orion spacecraft (built by Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT)) on a course past the moon and back to Earth. This launch is designated Artemis II.
Next year will follow with Artemis III, in which an SLS rocket puts an Orion into low Earth orbit, where it will practice docking with SpaceX's Human Landing System lunar lander and Blue Origin's Blue Moon. The series of three flights culminates in Artemis IV, which will put two astronauts on the moon in 2028 for a weeklong mission.
Simultaneously with this crewed lunar exploration effort will be a series of at least 30 robotic missions to the moon, deploying a series of cargo landers to deliver and test out equipment necessary for lunar exploration and setting up an eventual base on the lunar surface. These missions will fall under two separate NASA programs: Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) and Lunar Terrain Vehicle (LTV). To support this part of phase 1, NASA announced yesterday it has awarded a fifth cargo flight, IM-5, to Intuitive Machines (NASDAQ: LUNR), and Intuitive will develop an enlarged version of its Nova lander (Nova-D) for this mission.
Phase 1 alone will cost $10 billion, says Isaacman.
Partes 2 et 3
Beginning with Artemis V, flights will take place roughly once every six months and will be crewed. These launches will form part of the second phase of Ignition, with astronauts arriving on the moon to build out "early infrastructure," including temporary habitations and pressurized rovers for exploration. (It's unclear whether Boeing's SLS will be used for future Artemis missions or whether NASA will switch to much cheaper rockets from SpaceX and Blue Origin -- but I'd bet on the latter.)
Segueing into phase 3, NASA will use large cargo landers and Artemis missions to deliver heavier elements of lunar infrastructure. International partners will deliver Multipurpose Habitats (MPH, from Italy) and a Lunar Utility Vehicle (from Canada). No mention was made of a power source for the moon base, but it would seem likely that large deliveries of solar panels or even a small nuclear power plant might appear in this phase.
Completion of phases 2 and 3 will grow the cost of the entire moon base plan to $20 billion.
Meanwhile, back (around) Earth
But what about the International Space Station, you ask? Are we abandoning low Earth orbit in favor of the moon? Not exactly.
Plans continue apace for NASA to support space companies building private commercial space stations. Taking a step-by-step approach, NASA plans to build a government-owned core module that will attach to the existing International Space Station (ISS). Private space stations will temporarily attach to this module, be validated to ensure they're safe, and then be allowed to detach to form independent space stations.
(Read more about the teams vying to build private space stations here.)
Incidentally, a continuing presence in low Earth orbit argues for a continuing need for spacecraft such as SpaceX's Crew Dragon, Northrop Grumman's (NYSE: NOC) Cygnus, and possibly Boeing's Starliner to carry astronauts and supplies to the stations.
Onward to Mars
Last but not least: Mars.
Perhaps Isaacman's most surprising announcement was Space Reactor-1 Freedom. Shifting from chemical rockets to atomic power, NASA will build "the first nuclear powered interplanetary spacecraft," carrying a 25-kilowatt nuclear reactor, and fly it to Mars in 2028 -- there to deliver multiple Ingenuity-class helicopter drones to further explore the Red Planet.
Who will build SR-1 Freedom? Isaacman didn't say. We do know that among NASA, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), and the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. government has at least three different nuclear spaceship engines in the works. Lockheed Martin is working on at least two of them and Intuitive Machines on one, with Westinghouse and BWX Technologies (NYSE: BWXT) lending a hand on the power plants.
It's an exciting time to invest in space. Mr. Isaacman, "make it so."
Should you buy stock in Boeing right now?
Before you buy stock in Boeing, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Boeing wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $503,861!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,026,987!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 884% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 179% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of March 29, 2026.
Rich Smith has positions in Intuitive Machines. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends BWX Technologies, Boeing, and Intuitive Machines. The Motley Fool recommends Lockheed Martin. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Jared Isaacman Has Big Plans for NASA. Here Are Some of Them.

General Dynamics Corporation’s GD business unit, Electric Boat, recently clinched a modification contract involving the operational, strategic and attack submarines. The award has been offered by the Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C.
Details of GD’s Deal
Valued at $95 million, the contract is expected to be completed by June 2026. Per the terms of the modification contract, the company will provide engineering, technical, design agent and planning yard support for operational, strategic and attack submarines.
The majority of the work under this contract will be executed in Groton, CT.
GD’s Growth Prospects
According to a report from the Mordor Intelligence firm, rising military conflicts, terrorism and border disputes have driven nations across the globe to focus more on national security, with investments in enhancing their submarine fleet. This surge is fueled by the increasing demand for advanced technologies like stealth capabilities, underwater surveillance and long-range strike systems, as well as the growing complexity of modern naval warfare. Mordor Intelligence also forecasts that the submarine market will witness a compound annual growth rate of 3.98% during the 2026-2031 period.
This is likely to benefit General Dynamics, a prominent contractor in the submarine market. Its Electric boat business division is responsible for all aspects of design and engineering and leads the construction of Columbia-class ballistic missiles and Virginia-class attack submarines.
Opportunities for Other Defense Players
Other defense companies that are likely to enjoy the perks of the expanding global submarine market have been discussed below.
Huntington Ingalls Industries HII: Through its Newport News Shipbuilding division, HII is involved in producing the Columbia-class and Virginia-class submarines, two key assets of the U.S. Navy. The company also provides fleet services to its submarines around the world, offering modernization, repair and installation services.
Huntington has a long-term (three to five years) earnings growth rate of 14.3%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for HII’s 2026 sales indicates year-over-year growth of 3.3%.
BAE Systems BAESY: It plays a vital role in the production of advanced submarines, particularly in the United Kingdom’s defense sector. BAE Systems is the primary manufacturer of the Astute-class nuclear submarines, which are integral to the Royal Navy's fleet.
BAE Systems has a long-term earnings growth rate of 14.8%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for BAESY’s 2026 sales indicates year-over-year growth of 56.1%.
Northrop Grumman Corporation NOC: It is a renowned provider of missile launch systems for naval submarines. The company manufactures Launcher Subsystem hardware to support the Columbia and Dreadnought common missile compartment program.
Northrop has a long-term earnings growth rate of 4.8%. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for NOC’s 2026 sales indicates year-over-year growth of 4.6%.
GD Stock’s Price Movement
Shares of GD have surged 32% in the past year compared with the industry’s 18.7% growth.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
GD’s Zacks Rank
GD currently carries a Zacks Rank #4 (Sell).
You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Just Released: Zacks Top 10 Stocks for 2026
Hurry – you can still get in early on our 10 top tickers for 2026. Handpicked by Zacks Director of Research Sheraz Mian, this portfolio has been stunningly and consistently successful.
From inception in 2012 through November, 2025, the Zacks Top 10 Stocks gained +2,530.8%, more than QUADRUPLING the S&P 500’s +570.3%.
Sheraz has combed through 4,400 companies covered by the Zacks Rank and handpicked the best 10 to buy and hold in 2026. You can still be among the first to see these just-released stocks with enormous potential.
See New Top 10 Stocks >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

General Dynamics' Arm Wins a Navy Deal for Submarine Support

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. KTOS is strengthening its growth outlook by expanding its propulsion systems business, which focuses on developing small turbojet and turbofan engines for unmanned aerial systems, missiles and target drones. These propulsion solutions play a critical role in modern defense platforms, where compact, efficient and cost-effective engines are essential for mission performance.
A key element of this segment is the company’s ability to design and produce affordable propulsion systems that support high-performance applications. Kratos Defense focuses on engines that can be manufactured at scale while maintaining reliability, making them suitable for defense programs that require large volumes of expendable or semi-expendable systems. This approach aligns with evolving military priorities around cost efficiency and rapid deployment.
The company is also benefiting from the increasing demand for propulsion technologies used in tactical drones, cruise missiles and high-speed target systems. These applications require engines that deliver consistent performance under demanding conditions, supporting training exercises, weapons testing and operational missions. Kratos Defense’s expertise in propulsion design and manufacturing enables it to capitalize on opportunities across these expanding defense segments.
As defense forces continue to invest in unmanned platforms and advanced strike systems, demand for compact propulsion technologies is expected to rise. Kratos Defense’s focus on scalable and cost-efficient engine solutions positions it to benefit from these trends while expanding its role in next-generation defense programs.
Companies Expanding Propulsion Systems Capabilities
The defense industry is witnessing rising demand for propulsion systems as unmanned platforms and missile technologies gain importance. Increasing reliance on autonomous and precision-strike capabilities is driving demand for compact, efficient and scalable engine solutions. Major companies like RTX Corporation RTX and Northrop Grumman Corporation NOC are strengthening their propulsion capabilities to benefit from this trend.
RTX provides propulsion systems and advanced technologies used in missiles and defense platforms, supporting U.S. and allied military operations.
Northrop Grumman develops advanced propulsion solutions, including solid rocket motors, which support missile systems, space programs and a range of defense operations.
Earnings Estimates for KTOS Stock
The Zacks Consensus Estimate for 2026 and 2027 earnings per share suggests year-over-year growth of 38.18% and 39.91%, respectively.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
KTOS Stock Trading at a Discount
Kratos Defense is trading at a discount relative to the industry, with a forward 12-month price-to-sales of 8.53X compared with the industry average of 11.83X.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
KTOS Stock Price Performance
In the past year, Kratos Defense shares have surged 153.4% compared with the industry’s 30.1% growth.
Image Source: Zacks Investment Research
KTOS’ Zacks Rank
Kratos currently has a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today’s Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.
Zacks Names #1 Semiconductor Stock
This under-the-radar company specializes in semiconductor products that titans like NVIDIA don't build. It's uniquely positioned to take advantage of the next growth stage of this market. And it's just beginning to enter the spotlight, which is exactly where you want to be.
With strong earnings growth and an expanding customer base, it's positioned to feed the rampant demand for Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Internet of Things. Global semiconductor manufacturing is projected to explode from $452 billion in 2021 to $971 billion by 2028.
See This Stock Now for Free >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
RTX Corporation (RTX) : Free Stock Analysis Report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Can Kratos Defense's Propulsion Systems Business Drive Growth?

Key Points
Palantir has been selected to develop the software layer for the Golden Dome missile defense system.
A successful prototype could be worth billions of dollars to the AI and data mining specialist.
One of the most ambitious programs proposed by the Trump administration is the so-called "Golden Dome," a multilayered missile defense system capable of intercepting ballistic, cruise, and hypersonic missiles and protecting the U.S. from incoming attacks. The system would link satellites, kinetic-interceptor missiles, and directed-energy weapons to form an antimissile shield over the entire country. Artificial intelligence (AI) software would form the heart of the platform, linking the disparate hardware together in a cohesive operating unit.
Palantir (NASDAQ: PLTR) has been named as one of the key developers of the software, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal.
Will AI create the world's first trillionaire? Our team just released a report on the one little-known company, called an "Indispensable Monopoly" providing the critical technology Nvidia and Intel both need. Continue »
The next generation of warfare
Palantir and privately held Anduril Industries form the backbone of a consortium of technology and defense companies developing the software layer of the Golden Dome, aiming to have a prototype ready for testing as early as this summer, according to the report.
The project is being directed by Space Force General Michael Guetlein, who identifies the software as the most crucial piece of the equation. It will not only connect the satellites, radars, and sensors needed to detect and track incoming threats, but also provide military commanders with options for an appropriate response from an arsenal of dedicated weapons, all within near real-time.
Guetlein described the software as the "glue layer" that will form the foundation of the undertaking, helping military officers handle the wide array of equipment operated by different branches of the military services.
Other program contributors include:
Aalyria Technologies, a company spun out of Alphabet's Google, develops high-speed communications networks across land, sea, air, and space.
AI-start-up Scale AI, which specializes in developing highly accurate data for AI models using high-quality, human-verified AI training data to improve the quality of the inputs.
Swoop Technologies, which designed a secure, distributed operating system -- SwoopOS -- for mission-critical infrastructure and military systems.
Moreover, in a highly unusual move, traditional defense contractors, including Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and RTX, were added to the venture after its inception, and are subcontractors to the technology companies spearheading the project.
If Palantir delivers a successful prototype -- and that's a big "if" -- it could catapult the company to the next level. Rosenblatt analyst John McPeake has already weighed in, reiterating his buy rating and $200 price target on the stock. This represents potential upside of 29% compared to Tuesday's closing price. He points out that, while Anduril was named as a contributor, it was Palantir's Maven Smart System that was recently identified by the Department of Defense as the "program of record" for battlefield command-and-control systems.
The analyst believes Palantir's contribution to phase one of the Golden Dome could be worth "many billions of dollars" to the company. For context, Palantir's revenue for all of 2025 was roughly $4.48 billion, so this contract would certainly move the needle.
The stock is selling for 84 times next year's expected earnings, so it's certainly expensive. That said, this development shows how Palantir's systems could underpin the next generation of warfare, something that's currently not priced into stock.
Should you buy stock in Palantir Technologies right now?
Before you buy stock in Palantir Technologies, consider this:
The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now… and Palantir Technologies wasn’t one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.
Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $490,325!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, you’d have $1,074,070!*
Now, it’s worth noting Stock Advisor’s total average return is 900% — a market-crushing outperformance compared to 184% for the S&P 500. Don't miss the latest top 10 list, available with Stock Advisor, and join an investing community built by individual investors for individual investors.
*Stock Advisor returns as of March 25, 2026.
Danny Vena, CPA has positions in Alphabet and Palantir Technologies. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet, Palantir Technologies, and RTX. The Motley Fool recommends Lockheed Martin. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Palantir Named as Part of Trump Administration's $185 Billion Golden Dome Project

For Immediate Release
Chicago, IL – March 25, 2026 – Zacks.com announces the list of stocks featured in the Analyst Blog. Every day the Zacks Equity Research analysts discuss the latest news and events impacting stocks and the financial markets. Stocks recently featured in the blog include: Lockheed Martin LMT, Northrop Grumman NOC, Apple AAPL and Microsoft MSFT.
Here are highlights from Tuesday’s Analyst Blog:
Investing During War: Stocks, Gold, Commodities & Crypto
Geopolitical conflicts and wars have repeatedly shaken financial markets, often triggering sharp selloffs, spikes in oil prices and widespread investor panic. One of the most well-known recent examples was the Russia-Ukraine war in 2022, when global markets fell sharply, energy prices surged, inflation accelerated and recession fears spread across major economies.
The S&P 500 dropped by around 5-10% during the invasion span. The war triggered a global energy crisis, slashed global trade growth and cost the global economy an estimated $1.3 trillion in 2022, creating massive inflation and supply chain shocks (Business Standard).
History Shows Markets Recover
Within a year, many global markets had, however, recovered a large portion of their losses and several sectors such as energy, defense and commodities delivered strong returns. Similar patterns were observed during the COVID-19 market crash, the Gulf War, the Iraq War and even after the 9/11 attacks. Markets initially declined due to uncertainty but later stabilized as economies adjusted, supply chains reorganized and governments introduced policy support.
Core Principle of Investing: Markets Fall on Uncertainty but Rise on Time
This pattern highlights an important investing reality. Periods of uncertainty often push investors toward cash and defensive assets, but they also create opportunities for long-term investors willing to accumulate assets at lower valuations. Markets tend to recover, economies adjust and investors who deploy capital during periods of fear often generate the strongest long-term returns.
As of now, global markets are again facing geopolitical uncertainty related to Middle East tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States, along with rising oil prices, inflation concerns and increased volatility across equities and bonds. The short-term outlook remains uncertain and geopolitical clarity may take months or longer. However, long-term investing has never depended on geopolitical clarity, it has depended on strategic asset allocation and time in the market.
Wealth Built by Investing During Uncertainty, Not During Euphoria
Long-term investors who continue investing during downturns often outperform those who try to time the market. Historical data shows that if you invested in the S&P 500 (including dividends reinvested) in 1926, the annualized return through 2026 is about 10.41% per year, despite wars, recessions, crises and pandemics (S&P 500 Official Data).
A smart strategy right now is asset allocation across multiple asset classes, rather than betting on a single market direction.
Below are three asset classes investors can consider in the current environment.
Sector-Specific and Broad Market Equities
During geopolitical conflicts and war-driven market downturns, not all equities move in the same direction. While broad markets often decline due to uncertainty, certain sectors such as defense, energy, infrastructure and cybersecurity tend to perform relatively better due to increased government spending and rising energy demand.
Companies like Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, ExxonMobil and Chevron often benefit during such periods. At the same time, broad market equities and large-cap companies like Apple and Microsoft provide long-term growth opportunities when markets fall. A gradual, systematic investment approach during downturns is often more effective than trying to time the market bottom.
Gold and Commodities
Gold and commodities have historically acted as hedges during geopolitical uncertainty, inflation and currency volatility because wars often disrupt supply chains, energy routes and global trade. In 2026, Middle East tensions pushed oil prices higher and increased volatility across commodities, while gold and silver saw strong safe-haven demand during peak uncertainty.
Commodities such as crude oil, natural gas, gold, silver, copper and agricultural products often rise during geopolitical shocks and inflationary periods. Including commodities in a portfolio helps diversify risk because commodities sometimes perform well when equity markets are volatile, making them useful for asset allocation during uncertain global environments.
Cryptocurrency (High Risk, Small Allocation)
Cryptocurrency has emerged as a new alternative asset class over the past decade. In some geopolitical situations, crypto assets have seen increased demand due to currency instability, capital controls, inflation concerns and distrust in traditional financial systems. Major cryptocurrencies are often viewed as long-term digital assets, while others are linked to blockchain infrastructure and decentralized applications.
In early 2026, major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum were highly volatile and declined during market sell-offs. However, such corrections are common in crypto markets and often create long-term accumulation opportunities. Historically, many of Bitcoin’s strongest long-term gains have come after major corrections, which is why long-term investors often use market declines to gradually accumulate rather than invest during euphoric rallies. The key with crypto is “position sizing”, a small allocation that can add potential high growth to a portfolio without significantly increasing overall portfolio risk.
Why Haven't You Looked at Zacks' Top Stocks?
Since 2000, our top stock-picking strategies have blown away the S&P's +7.7% average gain per year. Amazingly, they soared with average gains of +48.4%, +50.2% and +56.7% per year.
Today you can access their live picks without cost or obligation.
https://www.zacks.com
Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Inherent in any investment is the potential for loss. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and nothing herein constitutes investment, legal, accounting or tax advice, or a recommendation to buy, sell or hold a security. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment is suitable for a particular investor. It should not be assumed that any investments in securities, companies, sectors or markets identified and described were or will be profitable. All information is current as of the date of herein and is subject to change without notice. Any views or opinions expressed may not reflect those of the firm as a whole. Zacks Investment Research does not engage in investment banking, market making or asset management activities of any securities. These returns are from hypothetical portfolios consisting of stocks with Zacks Rank = 1 that were rebalanced monthly with zero transaction costs. These are not the returns of actual portfolios of stocks. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index. Visit https://www.zacks.com/performance for information about the performance numbers displayed in this press release.
Radical New Technology Could Hand Investors Huge Gains
Quantum Computing is the next technological revolution, and it could be even more advanced than AI.
While some believed the technology was years away, it is already present and moving fast. Large hyperscalers, such as Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Oracle, and even Meta and Tesla, are scrambling to integrate quantum computing into their infrastructure.
Senior Stock Strategist Kevin Cook reveals 7 carefully selected stocks poised to dominate the quantum computing landscape in his report, Beyond AI: The Quantum Leap in Computing Power.
Kevin was among the early experts who recognized NVIDIA's enormous potential back in 2016. Now, he has keyed in on what could be "the next big thing" in quantum computing supremacy. Today, you have a rare chance to position your portfolio at the forefront of this opportunity.
See Top Quantum Stocks Now >>
Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report
The views and opinions expressed herein are the views and opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Nasdaq, Inc.

Northrop Grumman Corporation

Options Strategies