$NOC

Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC) Posts Q3 2026 Sales In Line With Estimates

Northrop Grumman reported Q3 2026 sales of $11.12 billion, matching estimates. EPS of $7.89 beat estimates by 9.6%. The company maintained its full-year revenue guidance of $44 billion. Operating and free cash flow margins remained steady year-over-year. Backlog grew 19.8% to $109.6 billion.

Original reporting
Published Oct 20, 2026, 10:31 AM UTC
Analysis
AlphAI AI DeskAI-generated
Added to AlphAI Oct 20, 2026, 10:53 AM UTC. Informational, not investment advice.
How this was made
AlphAI summarizes source reporting and applies a structured AI analysis for relevance, timing, sentiment and ticker impact. Always verify material claims with the original publisher.
Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC) Posts Q3 2026 Sales In Line With Estimates — source image
Decision brief

The 30-second read

$NOCBullishHigh
01

Why it matters

The earnings beat and reaffirmed guidance provide a fresh catalyst for short-term trading decisions.

02

Market read

Strong earnings from a large-cap defense firm may drive short-term buying interest.

03

What to watch

Backlog growth of 19.8% could indicate future revenue visibility beyond the quarter.

Relevance 9/10Novelty 9/10Timing: pre-market today

Background

Northrop Grumman released its Q3 2026 earnings, showing modest growth and an EPS beat.

Company-level read

Ticker impact

$NOCBullishHigh confidence
Context

Northrop Grumman posted Q3 2026 revenue of $11.12B, beating estimates and reconfirmed full-year guidance.

Expected impact

likely modest upward pressure as market prices in the earnings beat and guidance reaffirmation

Evidence & confidence

The beat on EPS and revenue, combined with unchanged guidance, provides fresh positive catalyst for traders.

Market effects

Defense sector may see slight uplift from strong earnings at a major player.

U.S. defense stocks could benefit in early trading.

Limited to investors focused on aerospace and defense.

Counterpoint

Guidance unchanged may signal limited growth, prompting some investors to take profits.

Key entities

  • Northrop Grumman

    U.S. defense contractor reporting Q3 2026 results.

Related articles

$NOCHighAI 8/10

Northrop Grumman (NOC) Q3 2026 Earnings Call Transcript

Northrop Grumman (NOC) reported Q3 2026 earnings with a 1.5x book-to-bill ratio, a record $110B backlog, and 12%+ operating margins. The company raised 2026 guidance and expects growth acceleration in 2027, driven by programs like Sentinel, B-21, and space systems. New products and strategic wins support long-term expansion, with international sales targeted to double by 2031.

$NOCMedAI 8/10

Northrop Grumman Corporation Q3 2026 Earnings Call Summary

Northrop Grumman reported Q3 2026 earnings, highlighting a record $110B backlog and 14% sales growth in Aeronautics. The company raised EPS guidance and expects 5-7% sales growth in 2027, with margin expansion. Capital expenditures are projected at $2.1B for 2027, and international sales are targeted to double by 2031. Management is exploring strategic options for its quantum and microelectronics business.

$NOCHighAI 8/10

Northrop Grumman (NOC) Stock Trades Up, Here Is Why

Northrop Grumman (NOC) shares rose 5.2% after reporting Q3 2026 sales of $11.1B (up 7% YoY) and EPS of $7.89 (beating estimates). The company raised its full-year guidance for operating income and EPS. Its backlog increased to $110B, and operating margin was 11.4%. NOC is down 8.3% YTD but up 34% over 5 years.

$NOCHighAI 8/10

What Northrop Grumman (NOC) Said on Its Q3 Earnings Call

Northrop Grumman (NOC) reported Q3 progress, including Sentinel missile development, satellite deployments, and a $1.4B backlog addition. It raised 2026 segment operating income guidance to $4.94B-$5.04B and EPS by $0.70. For 2027, it forecasts 5%-7% sales growth, margin expansion, and $3.3B-$3.7B free cash flow. The company is exploring strategic options for its microelectronics business.