Melius downgrades Lockheed on competitive losses, Europe risk

Melius Research downgraded Lockheed Martin (LMT) to Hold from Buy with a price target of $483, down from $603. Boeing (BA) had a win over Lockheed on the Air Force’s sixth generation fighter program, the analyst tells investors in a research note. Following the news, Melius upgraded Boeing and downgraded Lockheed. The firm cites competitive losses and growing concerns over Europe’s efforts to reduce reliance on U.S. defense contractors for the downgrade of Lockheed. Europe’s moves may limit the company’s export opportunities, contends Melius. The firm says that with F-35 production rates at their peak, competitive losses make Lockheed’s long-term growth algorithm more challenging.