Northrop Grumman stock: Record backlog, higher 2026 profit outlook

Northrop Grumman reported stronger third-quarter sales, a record backlog and higher 2026 profit guidance on October 20, 2026. The company said in its SEC filing that sales for the quarter ended September 30 rose 7 percent year over year to 11.1 billion US dollars.

Northrop Grumman stock traded at 493.75 euros on Lang & Schwarz at 17:04 CET on Tuesday, November 3. That was 1.66 percent below the 502.10 euros reported for the stock on October 27, with the comparison measured against the earlier report rather than an Xetra close. The real-time quote of Northrop Grumman stock provides the latest trading view.

Growth and backlog strengthen visibility

Net awards reached 16.4 billion US dollars, producing a 1.5 book-to-bill ratio. Backlog stood at 109.6 billion US dollars at the end of September, with major awards including restricted programs, Sentinel, Virginia-class submarines, F-35 work and E-2 aircraft.

Sales increased across all four operating sectors. Aeronautics Systems grew 14 percent and Defense Systems 12 percent, while Mission Systems and Space Systems each advanced 2 percent. Total operating income rose 2 percent to 1.269 billion US dollars, and diluted earnings per share increased to 7.89 US dollars from 7.67 US dollars a year earlier.

Profit guidance moves higher

Northrop Grumman raised its 2026 segment operating income guidance to 4.94 billion to 5.04 billion US dollars from 4.85 billion to 5.00 billion US dollars. MTM-adjusted earnings guidance increased to 29.35 to 29.75 US dollars per share from 28.60 to 29.10 US dollars. The sales outlook remained at 43.75 billion to 44.25 billion US dollars, while adjusted free cash flow guidance stayed at 3.1 billion to 3.5 billion US dollars.

The company said the higher outlook reflects stronger operating performance and a lower tax rate, partly offset by higher corporate costs and interest expense. The filing also notes that government funding, appropriations, supply-chain conditions and contract execution remain relevant factors for the outlook.

The broader market backdrop is covered in current S&P 500 market reports.

More news and analyses on Northrop Grumman stock