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Northrop Grumman (NOC)
NYSE:NOC

Northrop Grumman (NOC) AI Stock Analysis

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Northrop Grumman

(NYSE:NOC)

Rating:74Outperform
Price Target:
$553.00
▲(11.94%Upside)
Northrop Grumman's stock is bolstered by strong financial stability and modest technical indicators, suggesting a stable investment. The company's ability to maintain a record backlog and international sales growth supports its future prospects, despite recent setbacks in specific programs and decreased quarterly sales. Valuation is fair with a reasonable P/E ratio, although the dividend yield is modest. The earnings call reflects balanced sentiment, further underscoring a cautiously optimistic outlook.
Positive Factors
Defense Spending
Analysts maintain a Buy rating for Northrop Grumman, expecting the company to benefit from increases in US and Global defense spending.
International Growth
International growth is expected to grow significantly this year and potentially beyond, with demand high for missiles, command and control systems, and airborne ISR.
Market Position
NOC is seen as an attractive defensive name ideal for weathering a prolonged market downturn.
Negative Factors
Earnings Performance
Northrop Grumman reported adjusted EPS significantly below expectations, due to a pre-tax loss from B-21 program issues.
Profitability
Northrop Grumman is lowering its segment operating income outlook due to decreased profitability, primarily driven by lower margins expected at Aeronautics.
Program Costs
Shares were weighed down by another charge on the B-21 program related to a process change and higher material costs.

Northrop Grumman (NOC) vs. SPDR S&P 500 ETF (SPY)

Northrop Grumman Business Overview & Revenue Model

Company DescriptionNorthrop Grumman Corporation operates as an aerospace and defense company worldwide. 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, and produces weapons and mission systems. It offers products and services, such as integrated battle management systems, weapons systems and aircraft, and mission systems. This segment also provides command and control and weapons systems, including munitions and missiles; precision strike weapons; propulsion, such as air-breathing and hypersonic systems; gun systems and precision munitions; life cycle service and support for software, weapons systems, and aircraft; and logistics support, sustainment, operation, and modernization for air, sea, and ground systems. The company's Mission Systems segment offers cyber, 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. This segment also provides airborne multifunction sensors; maritime/land systems and sensors; navigation, targeting, and survivability solutions; and networked information solutions. Its Space Systems segment offers satellites and payloads; ground systems; missile defense systems and interceptors; launch vehicles and related propulsion systems; and strategic missiles. The company was founded in 1939 and is based in Falls Church, Virginia.
How the Company Makes MoneyNorthrop Grumman makes money predominantly through contracts with government agencies, particularly the U.S. Department of Defense, NASA, and other international defense organizations. The company's revenue streams include the sale and support of advanced aerospace and defense systems, cybersecurity solutions, and space systems. A significant portion of its earnings comes from long-term government contracts, which provide steady and predictable revenue. Additionally, Northrop Grumman engages in strategic partnerships and collaborations to enhance its technological capabilities and expand its market reach. These partnerships, along with its research and development efforts, contribute to its competitive edge and financial performance.

Northrop Grumman Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Any
Any
Revenue by Segment
Revenue by Segment
Breaks down sales across various divisions, showcasing which areas are growing and contributing most to the company's top line, indicating strategic strengths or weaknesses.
Chart InsightsNorthrop Grumman's Space Systems revenue, after years of growth, has sharply declined since late 2023, likely due to the B-21 program's cost issues and contracting delays. Meanwhile, Defense Systems revenue surged in late 2024, possibly benefiting from new contracts like the IBCS award. Despite a 7% drop in Q1 2025 sales, the company maintains confidence in achieving its full-year sales target, driven by strong international sales and a record backlog. Investors should watch for resolution of B-21 challenges and the impact of international growth on overall performance.
Data provided by:Main Street Data

Northrop Grumman Earnings Call Summary

Earnings Call Date:Apr 22, 2025
(Q1-2025)
|
% Change Since: 6.96%|
Next Earnings Date:Jul 22, 2025
Earnings Call Sentiment Neutral
The earnings call highlighted significant achievements such as record backlog, successful program milestones, and international sales growth. However, challenges such as the substantial B-21 pretax loss, decreased sales, and delayed contract awards were also prominent. The sentiment is balanced with notable positives and negatives.
Q1-2025 Updates
Positive Updates
Record Backlog
Northrop Grumman Corporation reported another record backlog in the first quarter of $92.8 billion, inclusive of strong international bookings.
Successful Sentinel Test
The US Air Force and Northrop Grumman Corporation completed a successful static fire test of the stage one solid rocket motor for the Sentinel missile, marking a critical milestone.
International Sales Growth
International sales represented approximately 14% of total sales, with international sales up 11% in the quarter and a first-quarter international book-to-bill of 1.45 times.
IBCS Contract Award
The company received a nearly $500 million contract from the US Army to expand software development for IBCS, including AI and model-based systems engineering capabilities.
New Facility in Alabama
Northrop Grumman Corporation opened a new production and integration facility in Alabama, doubling the size of the previous facility to support air and missile defense systems.
Negative Updates
B-21 Pretax Loss
Northrop Grumman Corporation recognized an additional $477 million pretax loss on the B-21 program due to higher manufacturing costs and increased material costs.
Decrease in Sales
First-quarter sales were $9.5 billion, down 7% compared to the prior year, impacted by contracting delays and timing of material receipts.
Operating Cash Outflow
The company reported an operating cash outflow of $1.5 billion in the first quarter, reflecting increased vendor payments and lower billings and collections.
Delayed Contract Awards
Delays in new contract awards were noted, impacting the sales ramp and contributing to slower performance than anticipated.
Company Guidance
During Northrop Grumman Corporation's first quarter 2025 conference call, the company provided updated financial guidance while reaffirming its sales and free cash flow outlook for the year. The company reported a record backlog of $92.8 billion, despite delays in certain awards affecting the first quarter sales ramp. Sales in Q1 were $9.5 billion, down 7% year-over-year, primarily due to contracting delays and material receipt timing. The company adjusted for a $477 million pretax loss related to the B-21 program, citing increased manufacturing and material costs. Despite this, Northrop Grumman remains confident in achieving its full-year sales guidance of $42 billion to $42.5 billion, representing 3% to 4% organic growth. The company also highlighted strong international sales, which represented approximately 14% of total sales, with a first-quarter international book-to-bill ratio of 1.45 times and international sales up 11% in the quarter. The company reaffirmed its 2025 free cash flow guidance range of $2.85 billion to $3.25 billion, anticipating the largest cash generation in Q4.

Northrop Grumman Financial Statement Overview

Summary
Northrop Grumman demonstrates strong financial performance with robust profitability and a stable balance sheet. While revenue growth has decelerated, the company maintains strong margins and cash flows. Effective debt management and equity strength provide a solid foundation for navigating industry challenges and pursuing growth opportunities.
Income Statement
78
Positive
Northrop Grumman's income statement shows solid profitability and revenue stability. The TTM (Trailing-Twelve-Months) gross profit margin is robust, indicating effective cost management. However, the recent decline in total revenue growth compared to the previous year suggests stagnation, which could pose a challenge if not addressed. Net profit margins remain strong, providing a solid bottom line.
Balance Sheet
82
Very Positive
The balance sheet reflects a healthy financial position with a strong equity base. The debt-to-equity ratio is favorable, showing good leverage management, and the equity ratio indicates solid asset coverage by equity. Return on equity is competitive, although it has seen slight fluctuations, which could be monitored for future stability.
Cash Flow
74
Positive
Cash flows are solid, with positive operating cash flow and consistent free cash flow generation. There is a slight decline in the free cash flow growth rate, but the company maintains a strong operating cash flow to net income ratio, reflecting efficient conversion of earnings to cash. This positions the company well for future investments and debt servicing.
BreakdownTTMDec 2024Dec 2023Dec 2022Dec 2021Dec 2020
Income Statement
Total Revenue40.37B41.03B39.29B36.60B35.67B36.80B
Gross Profit7.81B8.36B6.55B7.47B7.27B7.48B
EBITDA5.70B7.01B4.23B7.68B8.73B5.59B
Net Income3.71B4.17B2.06B4.90B7.00B3.19B
Balance Sheet
Total Assets48.47B49.36B46.54B43.76B42.58B44.47B
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments1.69B4.35B3.11B2.58B3.53B4.91B
Total Debt16.02B16.49B15.68B14.70B14.37B16.35B
Total Liabilities33.48B34.07B31.75B28.44B29.65B33.89B
Stockholders Equity14.98B15.29B14.79B15.31B12.93B10.58B
Cash Flow
Free Cash Flow1.78B2.62B2.10B1.47B2.15B2.88B
Operating Cash Flow3.53B4.39B3.88B2.90B3.57B4.30B
Investing Cash Flow-1.73B-1.75B-1.58B-1.24B2.06B-1.21B
Financing Cash Flow-3.17B-1.40B-1.76B-2.61B-7.00B-432.00M

Northrop Grumman Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis Sentiment
Positive
Last Price494.00
Price Trends
50DMA
485.58
Positive
100DMA
483.17
Positive
200DMA
489.29
Positive
Market Momentum
MACD
2.73
Positive
RSI
52.45
Neutral
STOCH
28.32
Neutral
Evaluating momentum and price trends is crucial in stock analysis to make informed investment decisions. For NOC, the sentiment is Positive. The current price of 494 is above the 20-day moving average (MA) of 492.87, above the 50-day MA of 485.58, and above the 200-day MA of 489.29, indicating a bullish trend. The MACD of 2.73 indicates Positive momentum. The RSI at 52.45 is Neutral, neither overbought nor oversold. The STOCH value of 28.32 is Neutral, not indicating any strong overbought or oversold conditions. Overall, these indicators collectively point to a Positive sentiment for NOC.

Northrop Grumman Risk Analysis

Northrop Grumman disclosed 21 risk factors in its most recent earnings report. Northrop Grumman reported the most risks in the "Production" category.
Finance & Corporate - Financial and accounting risks. Risks related to the execution of corporate activity and strategy
Latest Risks Added 0 New Risks

Northrop Grumman Peers Comparison

Overall Rating
UnderperformOutperform
Sector (65)
Financial Indicators
Name
Overall Rating
Market Cap
P/E Ratio
ROE
Dividend Yield
Revenue Growth
EPS Growth
LMLMT
80
Outperform
$107.45B19.8182.55%2.88%3.12%-15.29%
GDGD
79
Outperform
$78.03B20.1818.23%2.06%14.11%17.65%
LHLHX
76
Outperform
$46.17B29.278.49%1.94%5.39%36.86%
NONOC
74
Outperform
$71.10B19.4425.41%1.87%0.61%77.28%
HIHII
71
Outperform
$9.36B17.2012.27%2.26%-1.04%-21.80%
65
Neutral
$10.56B15.495.57%1.96%2.71%-26.28%
BABA
58
Neutral
$161.77B-162.23%-9.15%-406.76%
* Industrials Sector Average
Performance Comparison
Ticker
Company Name
Price
Change
% Change
NOC
Northrop Grumman
494.00
66.51
15.56%
BA
Boeing
214.55
27.85
14.92%
GD
General Dynamics
290.74
8.75
3.10%
LHX
L3Harris Technologies
246.98
29.44
13.53%
HII
Huntington Ingalls
238.65
-1.99
-0.83%
LMT
Lockheed Martin
458.59
4.14
0.91%

Northrop Grumman Corporate Events

Private Placements and FinancingBusiness Operations and Strategy
Northrop Grumman Issues $1 Billion in Senior Notes
Neutral
May 29, 2025

On May 29, 2025, Northrop Grumman Corporation issued $1 billion in senior notes, with $500 million due in 2030 and another $500 million due in 2035. The issuance, underwritten by major financial institutions, is part of the company’s strategic financial management, potentially impacting its operational flexibility and market positioning.

The most recent analyst rating on (NOC) stock is a Buy with a $587.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Northrop Grumman stock, see the NOC Stock Forecast page.

Private Placements and Financing
Northrop Grumman Announces $1 Billion Notes Offering
Neutral
May 28, 2025

On May 27, 2025, Northrop Grumman announced the pricing of a $1.0 billion underwritten public offering of senior unsecured notes, consisting of $500 million of 4.650% notes due 2030 and $500 million of 5.250% notes due 2035. The proceeds are intended for general corporate purposes, including debt repayment, share repurchases, and working capital, with the offering expected to close on May 29, 2025, subject to customary conditions.

The most recent analyst rating on (NOC) stock is a Buy with a $587.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Northrop Grumman stock, see the NOC Stock Forecast page.

Executive/Board ChangesShareholder Meetings
Northrop Grumman Shareholders Approve Key Proposals at Meeting
Neutral
May 23, 2025

At Northrop Grumman‘s 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders on May 21, 2025, shareholders approved the election of twelve directors, the compensation of named executive officers, and the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the independent auditor for 2025. However, a shareholder proposal to enhance the clawback policy on unearned executive pay was not approved. The Board of Directors will consider shareholder input and feedback from the meeting.

The most recent analyst rating on (NOC) stock is a Buy with a $587.00 price target. To see the full list of analyst forecasts on Northrop Grumman stock, see the NOC Stock Forecast page.

Glossary
BuyA stock rated as a "Buy" is expected to perform better than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock is likely to deliver higher returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
HoldA stock rated as a "Hold" is expected to perform in line with the overall market or a specific benchmark. This rating indicates that the stock is neither particularly compelling nor unfavorable for investment. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
SellA stock rated as a "Sell" is expected to perform worse than the overall market or a specific benchmark over the near-to-medium term. This rating suggests the stock may deliver lower returns compared to other stocks in the same sector or market index. Note: This is not investment advice; please consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.

Disclaimer

This AI Analyst Stock Report is automatically generated by our AI systems using advanced algorithms and publicly available financial, technical, and market data. While the information provided aims to be accurate and insightful, it is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Any content created by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) system may contain inaccuracies and/or contain errors. Investing in stocks carries inherent risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. This report does not account for your personal financial circumstances, objectives, or risk tolerance. Always conduct your own research or consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions. The analysis and recommendations provided are based on historical and current data and may not fully reflect future market conditions or unexpected developments. Neither the creators of this report nor its affiliated entities guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information presented. Use this report at your own discretion and risk.Date of analysis: Jun 27, 2025