Global Conflicts Push Lockheed Martin, U.S. Arms Makers to Record Profits

Lockheed Martin and other major U.S. defense contractors have reported soaring profits, driven by rising global tensions and ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. Lockheed Martin, the world’s largest defense contractor, raised its 2025 forecast for revenue and profit, citing strong demand for fighter jets, missiles, and munitions amid escalating geopolitical concerns. The continued need for advanced military technology has reinforced the dominance of U.S. arms makers on the global stage.

Lockheed Martin, known for its F-35 stealth fighters, announced that its aeronautics segment saw an 11.9% jump in third-quarter sales to $7.26 billion. The company now projects full-year profits of $22.15 to $22.35 per share for 2025, an increase from its previous estimate of $21.70 to $22.00. Lockheed also raised its sales forecast to a range of $74.25 billion to $74.75 billion, highlighting the sustained demand for its fighter jets, missile systems, and defense technologies. The rising demand for advanced weaponry underlines how conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East continue to fuel Lockheed Martin’s growth and profitability.

Similarly, RTX, formerly Raytheon Technologies, raised its full-year profit and revenue forecast, citing strong global demand for its missiles, munitions, and aerospace services. The company benefits from shortages in new commercial jets, as airlines continue flying older, cost-intensive fleets that require extensive maintenance and repair. RTX now anticipates 2025 adjusted sales of $86.5 billion to $87 billion, up from a prior forecast of $84.75 billion to $85.5 billion, and expects adjusted profits between $6.10 and $6.20 per share. The surge in demand for missiles and aviation services reflects the direct impact of global conflicts on U.S. defense companies’ bottom lines.

Northrop Grumman also revised its 2025 profit outlook upward while trimming its overall sales forecast. Despite facing delays in certain weapon awards, the company expects profits to remain higher than anticipated, emphasizing the strategic importance of U.S. missile defense programs. Northrop, along with Lockheed Martin, RTX, and Boeing, is poised to benefit from the U.S. government’s planned $175 billion Golden Dome missile defense system, which aims to strengthen national security. The Golden Dome project, while still in early planning stages, represents a significant opportunity for defense contractors as tensions rise worldwide.

The surge in profits for Lockheed Martin, RTX, and other defense giants comes amid a complex geopolitical environment. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and conflicts in the Middle East have increased the need for replenishing munitions and upgrading defense systems. The Trump administration’s initiatives, such as the Golden Dome missile defense project, further boost opportunities for U.S. arms makers. Lockheed Martin’s contracts, including a $12.5 billion Pentagon deal for 296 F-35 jets, underscore the growing reliance of the U.S. military on advanced fighter jets and missiles to maintain global security and strategic readiness.

Executives at Lockheed Martin and RTX highlighted the unprecedented demand for defense solutions amid global instability. Lockheed Martin emphasized its ability to deliver F-35 jets and advanced munitions, while RTX pointed to its role in sustaining commercial aviation and missile defense systems. As conflicts continue to reshape global defense priorities, U.S. defense contractors remain well-positioned to capitalize on growing demand for high-tech military equipment. The combination of geopolitical tension, military modernization, and government-backed defense programs is driving sustained growth and record profits across the U.S. defense sector.