Leidos Raises Profit Forecast on Strong Global Defense Demand

Leidos Holdings, a leading U.S. defense contractor, has raised its annual profit forecast, riding a wave of robust demand for munitions and defense services worldwide. The company’s shares jumped roughly 2.7% in pre-market trading following the announcement.

For the full year, Leidos now expects diluted earnings between $11.45 and $11.75 per share, up from its previous guidance of $11.15 to $11.45 per share. Revenue projections remain steady at $17 billion to $17.25 billion, highlighting steady growth in its core government and defense contracts.

The company reported a strong third quarter, with adjusted earnings per share of $3.05, surpassing analysts’ estimates of $2.71. Revenue climbed 6.7% to $4.47 billion, exceeding Wall Street expectations of $4.28 billion.

Leidos, based in Reston, Virginia, specializes in cybersecurity solutions, management technology services for government agencies, and advanced drones and aerial systems. Its growth mirrors a broader global trend: defense budgets are climbing amid ongoing conflicts, including the Russia-Ukraine war, and persistent tensions in the Middle East.

The upward revision signals that the defense sector continues to benefit from sustained government spending on security and technology, positioning companies like Leidos to capture increased demand in both munitions and high-tech defense solutions.