Tag: Defense

Release – Kratos and GE Aerospace Sign Teaming Agreement, Expand Small Engine Portfolio with New Propulsion System

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

June 3, 2025 at 8:00 AM EDT

SAN DIEGO, June 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a Technology Company in the Defense, National Security and Global Markets, and GE Aerospace (NYSE: GE) today announced a formal teaming agreement to advance propulsion technologies for the next generation of affordable unmanned aerial systems and Collaborative Combat Aircraft-type (CCA-type) aircraft.

Eric DeMarco, President and CEO of Kratos, said, “Kratos’ strategically important Teaming Agreement with GE Aerospace continues to rapidly advance and expand, with the GEK family of engines targeting certain of the most important, mission critical and highest priority needs and requirements of United States National Security. At Kratos, affordability is a technology and delivering more capability for less cost as quickly as possible are key contributions we are bringing for truly industry leading GEK offerings with our partner and global leader GE Aerospace.”

“The formalization of this teaming agreement and initiation of development of these new engines mark another step forward in our dedication to providing affordable, adaptable, high-performance propulsion systems for the future force,” said Amy Gowder, President and CEO of Defense & Systems at GE Aerospace. “We’re thrilled to continue our collaboration with Kratos and accelerate development across various classes of unmanned systems.”

This collaboration strengthens Kratos’ ongoing partnership with GE Aerospace – building on last year’s Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to advance the development and production of small, cost-effective engines for unmanned platforms. The new teaming agreement expands on that MOU and provides the framework for the two companies to develop, manufacture, test, and field the GEK800 Engine, as well as collaborate on other low-cost expendable turbofan engines.

The GEK800

The GEK800

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7eb9eaed-8320-4e62-be5a-195d3569535b

In addition to the joint work on the GEK800, the companies have commenced work on another new engine, the GEK1500. The engines under development support unmanned aerial systems (UAS), collaborative combat aircraft, and similar applications, positioning Kratos and GE Aerospace to offer affordable mass propulsion solutions across a range of next-generation defense applications for the Department of Defense.

Kratos brings more than 20 years of experience developing and producing small, affordable engines for UAS, drones, and missile platforms. GE Aerospace adds a century of expertise in propulsion technology and the ability to scale advanced designs into high-rate production —helping bridge the gap from prototype to deployment.

About Kratos Defense & Security Solutions
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS) is a technology, products, system and software company addressing the defense, national security, and commercial markets. Kratos makes true internally funded research, development, capital and other investments, to rapidly develop, produce and field solutions that address our customers’ mission critical needs and requirements. At Kratos, affordability is a technology, and we seek to utilize proven, leading edge approaches and technology, not unproven bleeding edge approaches or technology, with Kratos’ approach designed to reduce cost, schedule and risk, enabling us to be first to market with cost effective solutions. We believe that Kratos is known as an innovative disruptive change agent in the industry, a company that is an expert in designing products and systems up front for successful rapid, large quantity, low-cost future manufacturing which is a value add competitive differentiator for our large traditional prime system integrator partners and also to our government and commercial customers. Kratos intends to pursue program and contract opportunities as the prime or lead contractor when we believe that our probability of win (PWin) is high and any investment required by Kratos is within our capital resource comfort level. We intend to partner and team with a large, traditional system integrator when our assessment of PWin is greater or required investment is beyond Kratos’ comfort level. Kratos’ primary business areas include virtualized ground systems for satellites and space vehicles including software for command & control (C2) and telemetry, tracking and control (TT&C), jet powered unmanned aerial drone systems, advanced vehicles and rocket systems, propulsion systems for drones, missiles, loitering munitions, supersonic systems, space craft and launch systems, C5ISR and microwave electronic products for missile, radar, missile defense, space, satellite, counter UAS, directed energy, communication and other systems, and virtual & augmented reality training systems for the warfighter. For more information, visit www.KratosDefense.com.

About GE Aerospace
GE Aerospace is a global aerospace propulsion, services, and systems leader with an installed base of approximately 45,000 commercial and 25,000 military aircraft engines. With a global team of approximately 53,000 employees building on more than a century of innovation and learning, GE Aerospace is committed to inventing the future of flight, lifting people up, and bringing them home safely. Learn more about how GE Aerospace and its partners are defining flight for today, tomorrow, and the future at www.geaerospace.com. 

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Certain statements in this press release may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are made on the basis of the current beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the management of Kratos and are subject to significant risks and uncertainty. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. All such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and Kratos undertakes no obligation to update or revise these statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Although Kratos believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve many risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from what may be expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. For a further discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those expressed in these forward-looking statements, as well as risks relating to the business of Kratos in general, see the risk disclosures in the Annual Report on Form 10-K of Kratos for the year ended December 29, 2024, and in subsequent reports on Forms 10-Q and 8-K and other filings made with the SEC by Kratos.

Press Contact:
Claire Burghoff
claire.burghoff@kratosdefense.com

Investor Information:
877-934-4687
investor@kratosdefense.com

The GEO Group (GEO) – An ISAP Extension?

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Monday, June 02, 2025

The GEO Group, Inc. (NYSE: GEO) is a leading diversified government service provider, specializing in design, financing, development, and support services for secure facilities, processing centers, and community reentry centers in the United States, Australia, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. GEO’s diversified services include enhanced in-custody rehabilitation and post-release support through the award-winning GEO Continuum of Care®, secure transportation, electronic monitoring, community-based programs, and correctional health and mental health care. GEO’s worldwide operations include the ownership and/or delivery of support services for 103 facilities totaling approximately 83,000 beds, including idle facilities and projects under development, with a workforce of up to approximately 18,000 employees.

Joe Gomes, CFA, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

Enter Negotiations for Extension. On Friday, it was announced the government intends to enter into negotiations with GEO’s BI subsidiary for a one year extension of the ISAP program, which is currently effective through July 31, 2025. We would view an extension of this program as a significant positive for GEO in both the near-term and longer term.

A Positive Future? Acknowledging Friday’s release is limited to extending the current contract for a year, the verbiage used by the government contracting agency highlights the moat GEO has built around the business, suggesting the Company should be in the catbird’s seat for a longer term renewal. For example, the government states, “Market research conducted by the Office of Acquisition Management revealed that there is only one responsible source because the current contractor is uniquely positioned to maintain existing operations of the program without transitioning active program participants between contractor solutions.”


Get the Full Report

Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision. 

Great Lakes Dredge & Dock (GLDD) – Another New Contract

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Monday, June 02, 2025

Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corporation is the largest provider of dredging services in the United States. In addition, Great Lakes is fully engaged in expanding its core business into the rapidly developing offshore wind energy industry. The Company has a long history of performing significant international projects. The Company employs experienced civil, ocean and mechanical engineering staff in its estimating, production and project management functions. In its over 131-year history, the Company has never failed to complete a marine project. Great Lakes owns and operates the largest and most diverse fleet in the U.S. dredging industry, comprised of approximately 200 specialized vessels. Great Lakes has a disciplined training program for engineers that ensures experienced-based performance as they advance through Company operations. The Company’s Incident-and Injury-Free® (IIF®) safety management program is integrated into all aspects of the Company’s culture. The Company’s commitment to the IIF® culture promotes a work environment where employee safety is paramount.

Joe Gomes, CFA, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Hans Baldau, Associate Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

New Award. In Friday’s Department of Defense contract releases, Great Lakes was awarded a new $35.8 million dredging contract for Galveston, TX. The contract should be completed by the beginning of November 2025. We view this as Great Lakes filling in the very limited open 2025 calendar.

Empire 1 Restarted. In mid-May, the stop work order on the Empire 1 offshore wind project was lifted allowing construction activities to resume. Equinor will perform an updated assessment of the project economics in the second quarter. Empire aims to be able to execute planned activities in the offshore installation window in 2025 and reach its planned commercial operation date in 2027. Empire will engage with suppliers and regulatory bodies to reduce the impact of the stop work order. This is positive news for the still under construction Acadia.


Get the Full Report

Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision. 

Graham (GHM) – Awarded Large Follow-on Contract

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Wednesday, May 28, 2025

Graham Corporation designs, manufactures and sells critical equipment for the energy, defense and chemical/petrochemical industries. The Company designs and manufactures custom-engineered ejectors, vacuum pumping systems, surface condensers and vacuum systems. It is a nuclear code accredited fabrication and specialty machining company. It supplies components used inside reactor vessels and outside containment vessels of nuclear power facilities. Its equipment is found in applications, such as metal refining, pulp and paper processing, water heating, refrigeration, desalination, food processing, pharmaceutical, heating, ventilating and air conditioning. For the defense industry, its equipment is used in nuclear propulsion power systems for the United States Navy. The Company’s products are used in a range of industrial process applications in energy markets, including petroleum refining, defense, chemical and petrochemical processing, power generation/alternative energy and other.

Joe Gomes, CFA, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Hans Baldau, Associate Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

New Award. Yesterday, Graham announced that its Barber-Nichols subsidiary was awarded a $136.5 million follow-on contract to support the U.S. Navy’s Virginia Class Submarine program. This new award strengthens Graham’s position as a critical supplier to the U.S. Navy’s undersea programs.

Details. The contract period of performance extends from April 2025 through February 2034. Graham recognized approximately $50 million in backlog from the contract during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year ended March 31, 2025 to procure long-lead-time materials. As a reminder, the backlog at the end of the fiscal third quarter totaled $384.7 million, just below a record high.


Get the Full Report

Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision. 

V2X (VVX) – Another Proposed Stock Sale

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Monday, May 19, 2025

V2X builds innovative solutions that integrate physical and digital environments by aligning people, actions, and technology. V2X is embedded in all elements of a critical mission’s lifecycle to enhance readiness, optimize resource management, and boost security. The company provides innovation spanning national security, defense, civilian, and international markets. With a global team of approximately 16,000 professionals, V2X enables mission success by injecting AI and machine learning capabilities to meet today’s toughest challenges across all operational domains.

Joe Gomes, CFA, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Hans Baldau, Associate Analyst, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

Proposed Sale. On Friday, V2X announced AIP, through Vertex Holdco, will sell an additional two million VVX shares on an underwritten basis. The underwriter will have the option to purchase an additional 300,000 shares. V2X is not selling any shares of common stock in the offering, and V2X will not receive any proceeds from the offering by Vertex Aerospace.  The offering is expected to close on or about May 19, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions.

Post Sale Ownership. Following the offering, Vertex Aerospace will continue to beneficially own 12,167,286 shares, or approximately 38.4%, of V2X’s outstanding common stock after giving effect to the offering (or 11,867,286 shares, or approximately 37.4%, if the underwriter fully exercises its option to purchase additional shares).


Get the Full Report

Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision. 

Release – Graham Corporation Announces Strategic Investment by Customer to Enhance Production Capabilities in Batavia

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on Graham Corporation

May 01, 2025 8:30am EDT

BATAVIA, N.Y.–(BUSINESS WIRE)– Graham Corporation (NYSE: GHM) (“GHM” or “the Company”), a global leader in the design and manufacture of mission critical fluid, power, heat transfer, and vacuum technologies for the defense, space, energy, and process industries, today announced a strategic investment to support the implementation of new Radiographic Testing (“RT”) equipment at Graham’s Batavia, New York facility.

The investment of $2.2 million, from one of GHM’s customers, will enhance the Company’s capabilities in evaluating critical welds in support of the Columbia and Virginia class submarine programs. As part of the investment, Graham will also contribute $1.4 million for a total project cost of $3.6 million.

Daniel J. Thoren, CEO commented, “This strategic investment in RT equipment represents our commitment to delivering the highest quality components for critical naval defense programs. The upgraded RT capabilities at our Batavia facility is expected to significantly enhance our production efficiency while ensuring superior quality control for the vital welds that support the Columbia and Virginia class submarine programs. We’re grateful for our customer’s commitment to drive enhanced manufacturing infrastructure and are excited to continue our partnership.”

The strategic investment creates opportunities to support future, multi-year orders with potential enhanced revenue expected to begin in calendar year 2026.

This agreement builds upon previously announced investments by partners, including $13.5 million to expand defense production capabilities in Batavia in August 2023 and $2.1 million by the BlueForge Alliance in July 2024 to expand Graham’s welder training program in support of the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Industrial Base initiatives.

About Graham Corporation

Graham is a global leader in the design and manufacture of mission critical fluid, power, heat transfer and vacuum technologies for the defense, space, energy, and process industries. Graham Corporation and its family of global brands are built upon world-renowned engineering expertise in vacuum and heat transfer, cryogenic pumps, and turbomachinery technologies, as well as its responsive and flexible service and the unsurpassed quality customers have come to expect from the Company’s products and systems. Graham Corporation routinely posts news and other important information on its website, grahamcorp.com, where additional information on Graham Corporation and its businesses can be found.

Safe Harbor Regarding Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

Forward-looking statements are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions and are identified by words such as “continue,” “expects,” “future,” “will,” and other similar words. All statements addressing operating performance, events, or developments that Graham Corporation expects or anticipates will occur in the future, including but not limited to, expected expansion and growth opportunities, and expected benefits from the implementation of new RT equipment, are forward-looking statements. Because they are forward-looking, they should be evaluated in light of important risk factors and uncertainties. These risk factors and uncertainties are more fully described in Graham Corporation’s most recent Annual Report filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), included under the heading entitled “Risk Factors”, and in other reports filed with the SEC.

Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize or should any of Graham Corporation’s underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those currently anticipated. In addition, undue reliance should not be placed on Graham Corporation’s forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, Graham Corporation disclaims any obligation to update or publicly announce any revisions to any of the forward-looking statements contained in this news release.

For more information, contact:
Christopher J. Thome
Vice President – Finance and CFO
Phone: (585) 343-2216

Tom Cook
Investor Relations
Phone: (203) 682-8250
tom.cook@icrinc.com

Source: Graham Corporation

Released May 1, 2025

Release – Kratos Defense & Security Solutions Schedules First Quarter 2025 Earnings Conference Call for Wednesday, May 7th

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data for Kratos

SAN DIEGO, April 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS), a Technology Company in the Defense, National Security and Global Markets, announced today that it will publish financial results for the first quarter 2025 after the close of market on Wednesday, May 7th. Management will discuss the Company’s operations and financial results in a conference call beginning at 2:00 p.m. Pacific (5:00 p.m. Eastern).

The call will be available at www.kratosdefense.com. Participants may register for the call using this Online Form. Upon registration, all telephone participants will receive the dial-in number along with a unique PIN that can be used to access the call. For those who cannot access the live broadcast, a replay will be available on Kratos’ website.

About Kratos Defense & Security Solutions
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ: KTOS) is a technology, products, system and software company addressing the defense, national security, and commercial markets.  Kratos makes true internally funded research, development, capital and other investments, to rapidly develop, produce and field solutions that address our customers’ mission critical needs and requirements.  At Kratos, affordability is a technology, and we seek to utilize proven, leading edge approaches and technology, not unproven bleeding edge approaches or technology, with Kratos’ approach designed to reduce cost, schedule and risk, enabling us to be first to market with cost effective solutions.  We believe that Kratos is known as an innovative disruptive change agent in the industry, a company that is an expert in designing products and systems up front for successful rapid, large quantity, low cost future manufacturing which is a value add competitive differentiator for our large traditional prime system integrator partners and also to our government and commercial customers.  Kratos intends to pursue program and contract opportunities as the prime or lead contractor when we believe that our probability of win (PWin) is high and any investment required by Kratos is within our capital resource comfort level. We intend to partner and team with a large, traditional system integrator when our assessment of PWin is greater or required investment is beyond Kratos’ comfort level. Kratos’ primary business areas include virtualized ground systems for satellites and space vehicles including software for command & control (C2) and telemetry, tracking and control (TT&C), jet powered unmanned aerial drone systems, hypersonic vehicles and rocket systems, propulsion systems for drones, missiles, loitering munitions, supersonic systems, space craft and launch systems, C5ISR and microwave electronic products for missile, radar, missile defense, space, satellite, counter UAS, directed energy, communication and other systems, and virtual & augmented reality training systems for the warfighter.  For more information, visit www.KratosDefense.com.

Press Contact:
Claire Burghoff
claire.burghoff@kratosdefense.com

Investor Information:
877-934-4687
investor@kratosdefense.com

Release – V2X Awarded $103 Million U.S. Navy Contract for C-26 Support, Extending Legacy as a Readiness Multiplier

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Research News and Market Data on V2X

April 28, 2025

RESTON, Va., April 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — V2X (NYSE: VVX) Inc., has been awarded a $103 million contract by the U.S. Navy for Contractor Logistics Support (CLS) maintenance of C-26 aircraft, reinforcing V2X’s role as the best-value provider for this critical mission.

Under this contract, V2X will continue providing comprehensive CLS support, including aircraft engineering, upgrades maintenance and modifications.

“This award highlights the Navy’s continued confidence in V2X’s proven ability to deliver mission-capable aircraft with exceptional performance,” said Jeremy C. Wensinger, President and Chief Executive Officer at V2X. “With a longstanding history of supporting Navy aviation, this contract reaffirms our commitment to providing mission-ready aircraft that enhance operational readiness worldwide.”

“With readiness rates north of 90%, V2X consistently delivers mission-capable aircraft while managing all aspects of maintenance, personnel, and equipment,” said Vinny Caputo, Senior Vice President of Aerospace Systems at V2X. “A key differentiator in V2X’s offering is our numerous FAA Part 145 repair stations, which are readiness multipliers,” Caputo added. 

Work for this firm-fixed-price contract is expected to begin in June 2025, supporting eight C-26A/D aircraft stationed at four main operating bases, including one U.S. location and three international sites.

About V2X
V2X builds innovative solutions that integrate physical and digital environments by aligning people, actions, and technology. V2X is embedded in all elements of a critical mission’s lifecycle to enhance readiness, optimize resource management, and boost security. The company provides innovation spanning national security, defense, civilian, and international markets. With a global team of approximately 16,100 professionals, V2X enables mission success by injecting AI and machine learning capabilities to meet today’s toughest challenges across all operational domains.

Investor Contact 
Mike Smith, CFA
Vice President, Treasury, Corporate Development and Investor Relations
IR@goV2X.com
719-637-5773

Media Contact
Angelica Spanos Deoudes
Senior Director, Marketing and Communications
Angelica.Deoudes@goV2X.com
571-338-5195

Cision View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/v2x-awarded-103-million-us-navy-contract-for-c-26-support-extending-legacy-as-a-readiness-multiplier-302438881.html

SOURCE V2X, Inc.

Boeing Secures $20 Billion Contract for Next-Generation Fighter Jet

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

In a major boost to its defense business, Boeing has been awarded the contract to develop the U.S. Air Force’s next-generation fighter jet under the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program. The aircraft, now officially named the F-47, will replace the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor and is expected to serve alongside autonomous drone aircraft in future combat scenarios.

The announcement, made by President Donald Trump in the Oval Office, marks a critical turning point for Boeing, which has faced severe challenges in both its commercial and defense divisions. The engineering and manufacturing development contract, valued at over $20 billion, could ultimately yield hundreds of billions in future orders spanning multiple decades. Boeing’s victory over Lockheed Martin in securing this contract is a defining moment in the aerospace industry, shifting the balance of power in the defense sector.

The design and capabilities of the F-47 remain closely guarded secrets, but military officials have emphasized its advancements over the F-22 Raptor. Chief of Staff of the Air Force General David Allvin highlighted the F-47’s longer range, superior stealth capabilities, and increased adaptability to future threats. The aircraft is expected to feature cutting-edge avionics, enhanced sensors, and next-generation propulsion systems, making it a formidable asset in countering emerging threats from nations like China and Russia.

The NGAD initiative is envisioned as a “family of systems” incorporating manned and unmanned platforms to dominate future battlefields. The F-47 will play a pivotal role in this strategy, integrating seamlessly with artificial intelligence-driven drone squadrons to enhance operational efficiency and combat effectiveness.

Boeing’s stock surged 4% following the announcement, while Lockheed Martin’s shares dropped nearly 7%, reflecting investor sentiment regarding the shift in defense contracting priorities. For Boeing, this win represents a much-needed resurgence in its defense business, particularly after suffering major setbacks in commercial aviation, including production delays, safety concerns, and financial losses from the 737 MAX crisis.

Industry analysts view this contract as a significant validation of Boeing’s ability to execute high-stakes defense projects despite its recent challenges. Roman Schweizer, an analyst at TD Cowen, described the win as a “major boost” for Boeing, particularly given its struggles with cost overruns and delays on previous Department of Defense programs, including the KC-46 tanker and Air Force One modifications.

Lockheed Martin, meanwhile, faces an uncertain future in high-end fighter production. The company recently lost its bid to develop the Navy’s next-generation carrier-based stealth fighter, and this latest defeat raises questions about its long-term dominance in the military aviation sector. Despite these challenges, Lockheed continues to hold a strong position with its F-35 Lightning II program, which remains a critical component of U.S. and allied air forces.

Beyond domestic implications, the F-47 program may have significant international ramifications. Trump hinted that U.S. allies have already expressed interest in purchasing the aircraft, signaling potential foreign military sales that could further bolster Boeing’s defense revenue. Countries seeking advanced air superiority solutions may turn to the F-47 as a viable alternative to existing platforms, further extending its market potential.

While Lockheed may still have the option to challenge the contract award, the high-profile nature of Trump’s announcement makes such a move less likely. The public endorsement of Boeing’s selection could mitigate political or legal challenges, cementing the company’s role in shaping the future of American airpower.

As Boeing embarks on this ambitious defense project, the F-47 contract underscores the evolving landscape of military aviation, the growing reliance on next-generation technologies, and the shifting power dynamics within the aerospace industry. The coming years will reveal whether Boeing can successfully deliver on its promises and reestablish itself as a dominant force in the global defense market.

Scale AI’s Defense Deal: A New Frontier in Military AI Technology

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– Scale AI secures multimillion-dollar contract with Department of Defense
– “Thunderforge” program aims to integrate AI into military planning and operations
– Tech industry continues shifting towards military AI partnerships

Scale AI has entered a pivotal moment in the evolving landscape of military artificial intelligence, securing a multimillion-dollar contract with the Department of Defense for the “Thunderforge” program. This landmark deal represents a significant step in the integration of AI technologies into military strategic planning and operational decision-making.

The Defense Innovation Unit’s flagship program will leverage AI agents to enhance military capabilities across multiple domains. Partnering with technology giants like Anduril and Microsoft, Scale AI will develop AI solutions designed to accelerate decision-making processes and provide advanced modeling and simulation capabilities.

CEO Alexandr Wang emphasized the transformative potential of the technology, stating that their AI solutions will “modernize American defense” and provide military leaders with a technological advantage. The program’s initial rollout will focus on U.S. Indo-Pacific and European Commands, with plans to expand to additional areas.

The contract highlights a broader trend in the tech industry’s approach to military partnerships. Companies that previously maintained strict policies against military applications are now actively engaging with defense initiatives. OpenAI, Google, and other major tech firms have quietly modified their stance on military technology use, reflecting a significant shift in the industry’s perspective.

This evolution hasn’t been without controversy. Tech employees have historically voiced concerns about their companies’ military contracts, most notably during Google’s Project Maven, which involved AI analysis of drone surveillance footage. Margaret Mitchell, an AI ethics researcher, points out the complex ethical considerations, noting that companies cannot fully control how their technologies might be ultimately utilized.

The Thunderforge program emphasizes “speed” as a critical advantage, with defense officials repeatedly highlighting the need for rapid decision-making in modern warfare. The AI agents will support various military functions, including modeling potential scenarios, suggesting courses of action, and creating automated workflows.

While Scale AI maintains that the program will operate under human oversight, the broader implications of AI in military applications remain a topic of intense debate. The potential for AI to transform military operations is significant, but so are the ethical concerns surrounding autonomous decision-making systems.

Other recent military AI partnerships underscore this trend. Anthropic has collaborated with Palantir and Amazon Web Services to provide AI models for intelligence agencies, while OpenAI has partnered with Anduril to develop advanced systems for national security missions.

The technology’s potential extends beyond traditional warfare, with applications in intelligence gathering, threat assessment, and strategic planning. However, experts like Mitchell caution that the line between defensive technology and potential harm can be increasingly blurry.

As military AI continues to evolve, the tech industry finds itself at a critical intersection of innovation, ethics, and national security. Scale AI’s Thunderforge program represents a significant milestone in this ongoing technological transformation.

V2X (VVX) – Another New Award

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Thursday, February 27, 2025

V2X builds innovative solutions that integrate physical and digital environments by aligning people, actions, and technology. V2X is embedded in all elements of a critical mission’s lifecycle to enhance readiness, optimize resource management, and boost security. The company provides innovation spanning national security, defense, civilian, and international markets. With a global team of approximately 16,000 professionals, V2X enables mission success by injecting AI and machine learning capabilities to meet today’s toughest challenges across all operational domains.

Joe Gomes, CFA, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Joshua Zoepfel, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

FBI Award. Yesterday, V2X announced a $100 million contract award to provide aviation maintenance and support services for the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Critical Incident Response Group. Under this contract, V2X will deliver mission-critical aviation resources that enable the FBI to conduct intelligence gathering, investigate operations, and law-enforcement activities.

Contract Details. The indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract includes a five-year ordering period with four 12-month options. V2X will operate at multiple locations across the United States for the FBI. We view this award as further client diversification for the Company.


Get the Full Report

Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

This Company Sponsored Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision. 

Kratos Defense & Security (KTOS) – New Joint Venture Announced with 4Q Results

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com


Thursday, February 27, 2025

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (NASDAQ:KTOS) develops and fields transformative, affordable technology, platforms, and systems for United States National Security related customers, allies, and commercial enterprises. Kratos is changing the way breakthrough technologies for these industries are rapidly brought to market through proven commercial and venture capital backed approaches, including proactive research, and streamlined development processes. At Kratos, affordability is a technology, and we specialize in unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, hypersonic systems, training and combat systems and next generation turbo jet and turbo fan engine development. For more information go to www.kratosdefense.com.

Joe Gomes, CFA, Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst, Generalist , Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Joshua Zoepfel, Research Associate, Noble Capital Markets, Inc.

Refer to the full report for the price target, fundamental analysis, and rating.

4Q Results. Revenue for the fourth quarter was $283.1 million, an increase from $273.8 million last year but slightly below our $290 million estimate. Gross margin was 24.7% compared to 26.3%. Net income was $3.9 million, or $0.03/sh, from $2.4 million, or $0.02/sh, last year. We estimated net income of $2.5 million or $0.02/sh. Adjusted EPS was $0.13 from $0.12 last year and our $0.10 estimate. Adjusted EBITDA was $25.2 million from $29.1 million last year and our $24 million estimate.

New Joint Venture. Alongside the results was the announcement of a new joint venture with the Company and RAFAEL. The roughly 50/50 partnership is to establish a U.S.-based merchant supplier of solid rocket motors (SRMs) and other energetics named Prometheus Energetics. Up to $175 million in capital is committed between the two companies, with the venture currently forecasted an annual base case revenue of several $100 million a year once at rate production. In our view, the venture can represent a substantial value-creation driver and could potentially drive top and bottom-line growth once up and running.


Get the Full Report

Equity Research is available at no cost to Registered users of Channelchek. Not a Member? Click ‘Join’ to join the Channelchek Community. There is no cost to register, and we never collect credit card information.

This Research is provided by Noble Capital Markets, Inc., a FINRA and S.E.C. registered broker-dealer (B/D).

*Analyst certification and important disclosures included in the full report. NOTE: investment decisions should not be based upon the content of this research summary. Proper due diligence is required before making any investment decision. 

U.S. Indexes Fall as Iran Fires Missiles at Israel; Defense Stocks Surge

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com
Key Points:
– U.S. stock indexes drop, with Nasdaq down over 1% after Iran’s missile attack on Israel.
– Defense stocks rise as oil prices surge amid geopolitical tensions.
– Investors grow cautious, monitoring U.S. job data and port strikes.

U.S. stock markets took a sharp turn downward on Tuesday as news broke of Iran launching a barrage of ballistic missiles at Israel, heightening tensions in the Middle East. The Nasdaq Composite led the decline, falling by over 1%, while the broader market also saw losses, reflecting growing investor caution in the face of geopolitical instability. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell by 0.2%, and the S&P 500 dropped 0.75%.

The attack by Iran is seen as retaliation for Israel’s ongoing military campaign against Hezbollah, Iran’s ally in the region. In response to the missile strikes, President Joe Biden directed the U.S. military to support Israel’s defense and to shoot down any missiles aimed at the country, as confirmed by the White House National Security Council.

While the broader market felt the impact of the escalating conflict, shares in the defense sector surged. Companies like Northrop Grumman and Lockheed Martin saw their stock prices rise, as investors shifted focus to the increased demand for defense and military technology in light of the conflict. The S&P 500 Aerospace and Defense Index rose by more than 1%, hitting a new record high.

Energy companies also benefitted from the geopolitical unrest, with oil prices rising alongside the tensions. Exxon Mobil gained 2.2% as West Texas Intermediate crude oil climbed over 4%. The possibility of further supply disruptions in the Middle East, which produces a significant portion of the world’s oil, pushed investors into energy stocks, which historically serve as a hedge during times of geopolitical uncertainty.

On the other hand, airline stocks like Delta Air Lines experienced losses, reflecting concerns over potential disruptions in travel and higher fuel costs. Delta’s shares dropped by 1%, as investors anticipated a tightening of air travel conditions due to escalating tensions in the region.

“This situation highlights the variety of risks the market is currently facing, from slowing employment to geopolitical tensions,” noted Walter Todd, Chief Investment Officer at Greenwood Capital. “The market is vulnerable to shocks like this, and it’s reacting accordingly.”

The heightened geopolitical risk comes at a time when U.S. markets were already grappling with several economic uncertainties. On Monday, the three major indexes had posted strong gains for September and for the third quarter, but Tuesday’s developments prompted a reversal of that trend. In addition to the conflict in the Middle East, investors are also closely watching economic data related to U.S. job openings and manufacturing activity, which rebounded in August but still signaled broader concerns about the health of the economy.

Increased market volatility followed the news, with the CBOE Volatility Index, also known as the VIX or “fear gauge,” jumping by two points to 18.74. Earlier in the session, the index had reached a three-week high of 20.73, indicating a growing sense of uncertainty among investors.

Meanwhile, the looming East Coast and Gulf Coast port strikes, which began Tuesday, added another layer of complexity to the market’s reaction. The strike has halted approximately half of the nation’s ocean shipping, potentially exacerbating economic disruptions and creating further uncertainty for policymakers at the Federal Reserve as they assess the state of the economy.

Investors will be watching closely as more economic data is released later in the week, particularly the U.S. jobless claims report on Thursday and the monthly payrolls data on Friday. With market sentiment already rattled by geopolitical events, these figures could further influence the outlook for future Federal Reserve interest rate cuts.