Northrop Grumman Corporation (NOC)
For informational purposes only. Not financial advice. Analysis by Sedat ANAK, Founder & Editor-in-Chief | AI-powered analysis. Data sourced from SEC filings and institutional-grade financial providers. Editorially reviewed. Not financial advice.
Northrop Grumman Corporation (NOC) trades at $549.01 with AI Score 64/100 (Grade B+). Northrop Grumman Corporation is a leading global aerospace and defense technology company. Market cap: $77.98B, Sector: Industrials.
Price live · AI analysis from May 10, 2026NOC stock analysis for 2026: Analysts have set a consensus price target of $737.53 for Northrop Grumman Corporation, suggesting 34.3% upside from the current price of $549.01. The AI MoonshotScore is 64/100, indicating a bullish outlook. Key factors: analyst coverage, AI-driven quantitative scoring.
NOC: 1/1 perspectives are bullish.
How is this calculated? →Northrop Grumman Corporation (NOC) Industrial Operations Profile
Northrop Grumman Corporation, a prominent player in the aerospace and defense sector, delivers advanced solutions in aeronautics, defense, mission, and space systems. With a strong focus on innovation and technological superiority, the company serves government and commercial clients worldwide, maintaining a significant presence in key defense programs.
What Is the Investment Thesis for NOC?
Northrop Grumman presents a compelling investment case driven by its strong market position, diverse portfolio, and consistent financial performance. The company's focus on advanced technologies and its alignment with long-term defense spending trends support sustained growth. With a P/E ratio of 16.1 and a profit margin of 10.8%, Northrop Grumman demonstrates financial stability. Key catalysts include ongoing government contracts and expansion in the space systems segment. However, potential risks include geopolitical uncertainties and supply chain disruptions. The company's commitment to innovation and shareholder value enhances its long-term investment appeal.
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis
NOC Key Highlights
- Market Cap of $77.98B reflects Northrop Grumman's significant presence in the aerospace and defense industry.
- P/E Ratio of 16.1 indicates a reasonable valuation compared to its earnings.
- Profit Margin of 10.8% demonstrates efficient operations and profitability.
- Gross Margin of 20.5% highlights the company's ability to manage production costs effectively.
- Dividend Yield of 1.68% provides a steady income stream for investors.
Who Are NOC's Competitors?
NOC is benchmarked below against 8 industry peers on price, market cap, and our AI MoonshotScore.
| Company | Price | Change | Market Cap | AI Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LMT Lockheed Martin Corporation | $545.70 | +4.58% | $125.82B | 64 |
| HWM Howmet Aerospace Inc. | $270.41 | +1.12% | $108.19B | 89 |
| GD General Dynamics Corporation | $373.54 | +2.94% | $101.02B | 80 |
| UPS United Parcel Service, Inc. | $110.69 | +1.05% | $82.64B | 59 |
| EMR Emerson Electric Co. | $139.05 | -0.34% | $77.88B | 65 |
| FLY Firefly Aerospace Inc. | $28.90 | +1.87% | $4.75B | 68 |
| PL Planet Labs PBC | $31.38 | -0.73% | $10.45B | 66 |
| MDALF MDA Ltd. | $33.66 | +5.58% | $4.26B | 65 |
AI Score by Stock Expert AI · Price data: FMP / Yahoo Finance
What Are NOC's Key Strengths?
- Strong market position in the aerospace and defense industry
- Diverse portfolio of products and services
- Long-term contracts with government agencies
- Technological expertise and innovation
What Are NOC's Weaknesses?
- Dependence on government spending
- Exposure to geopolitical risks
- Potential for cost overruns on large projects
- Competition from other major defense contractors
What Could Drive NOC Stock Higher?
- Continued government contracts for defense and space systems.
- Potential new contracts for hypersonic weapons development.
- Expansion in cybersecurity solutions and services.
- Increasing demand for unmanned autonomous systems.
What Are the Key Risks for NOC?
- Changes in government spending priorities.
- Increased competition from emerging players.
- Supply chain disruptions affecting production.
- Geopolitical instability impacting international contracts.
What Are the Growth Opportunities for NOC?
- Expansion in Space Systems: Northrop Grumman's Space Systems segment offers significant growth potential, driven by increasing demand for satellites, ground systems, and missile defense systems. The global space market is projected to reach hundreds of billions of dollars in the coming years, presenting opportunities for Northrop Grumman to secure lucrative contracts and expand its market share. Ongoing investments in space technologies and strategic partnerships will be crucial for capitalizing on this growth.
- Cybersecurity Solutions: The increasing prevalence of cyber threats drives demand for Northrop Grumman's cybersecurity solutions. The company's expertise in cyber, command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems positions it to capture a larger share of the cybersecurity market. As governments and businesses prioritize cybersecurity, Northrop Grumman's advanced solutions will be in high demand, fostering revenue growth and market leadership.
- Unmanned Autonomous Systems: Northrop Grumman's Aeronautics Systems segment, particularly its unmanned autonomous aircraft systems, offers substantial growth opportunities. The demand for high-altitude long-endurance strategic ISR systems and vertical take-off and landing tactical ISR systems is increasing. With ongoing advancements in autonomous technologies and strategic partnerships, Northrop Grumman can expand its market presence and secure long-term contracts.
- Hypersonic Weapons Development: The development and production of hypersonic weapons represent a significant growth area for Northrop Grumman. As nations prioritize hypersonic capabilities, Northrop Grumman's expertise in propulsion and weapons systems positions it to secure lucrative contracts. Investments in research and development and strategic collaborations will be essential for maintaining a competitive edge in this rapidly evolving market.
- Modernization of Defense Systems: The ongoing modernization of defense systems worldwide presents opportunities for Northrop Grumman's Defense Systems segment. The company's integrated battle management systems, weapons systems, and life cycle service and support are in high demand as governments upgrade their military capabilities. By offering advanced solutions and comprehensive support services, Northrop Grumman can secure long-term contracts and drive revenue growth.
What Opportunities Does NOC Have?
- Expansion in space systems and cybersecurity
- Development of hypersonic weapons
- Modernization of defense systems worldwide
- Growth in unmanned autonomous systems
What Threats Does NOC Face?
- Changes in government spending priorities
- Increased competition from emerging players
- Supply chain disruptions
- Geopolitical instability
What Are NOC's Competitive Advantages?
- Technological expertise and innovation
- Long-term contracts with government agencies
- High barriers to entry in the aerospace and defense industry
- Strong relationships with key customers
What Does NOC Do?
Founded in 1939 and headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, Northrop Grumman Corporation has evolved into a global aerospace and defense technology leader. The company operates through four primary segments: Aeronautics Systems, Defense Systems, Mission Systems, and Space Systems. The Aeronautics Systems segment focuses on designing, developing, manufacturing, and sustaining aircraft systems, including unmanned autonomous aircraft systems and strategic long-range strike aircraft. The Defense Systems segment produces weapons and mission systems, offering integrated battle management systems, precision strike weapons, and life cycle service and support. The Mission Systems segment provides cyber, command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems, along with radar and electronic warfare systems. The Space Systems segment delivers satellites, ground systems, missile defense systems, and launch vehicles. Northrop Grumman's diverse portfolio and technological expertise have solidified its position as a key partner for government and commercial clients worldwide, contributing to national security and technological advancement.
What Products and Services Does NOC Offer?
- Designs, develops, and manufactures aircraft systems.
- Produces weapons and mission systems.
- Offers integrated battle management systems.
- Provides cyber, command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems.
- Delivers satellites and payloads.
- Develops missile defense systems and interceptors.
- Creates launch vehicles and related propulsion systems.
How Does NOC Make Money?
- Generates revenue through long-term contracts with government agencies.
- Sells advanced technology products and services to commercial clients.
- Provides life cycle service and support for software, weapons systems, and aircraft.
- Offers sustainment, operation, and modernization services for air, sea, and ground systems.
What Industry Does NOC Operate In?
Northrop Grumman operates in the aerospace and defense industry, characterized by high barriers to entry, long-term contracts, and significant government spending. The industry is driven by geopolitical factors, technological advancements, and the need for national security. Northrop Grumman competes with companies like Lockheed Martin Corporation and General Dynamics Corporation, focusing on innovation and technological superiority to maintain its competitive edge. The global defense market is expected to grow, driven by increasing security threats and modernization efforts, benefiting companies like Northrop Grumman.
Who Are NOC's Key Customers?
- U.S. Department of Defense
- International government agencies
- Commercial aerospace companies
- Intelligence community
Company Profile
Northrop Grumman Corporation operates in the Aerospace & Defense industry within the Industrials sector. It is headquartered in Falls Church, US. The company is led by CEO Kathy J. Warden. NOC has traded publicly since 1981.
F-Score 9/9Financial Health
Northrop Grumman Corporation's Piotroski F-Score is 9/9, a 9-point checklist of profitability, leverage and efficiency — signaling solid underlying fundamentals. Its Altman Z-Score of 3.20 places it in the safe zone, indicating low near-term bankruptcy risk.
ROE 28%Key Financial Metrics
Return on equity for Northrop Grumman Corporation stands at 28.1%, a gauge of how efficiently it converts shareholder capital into profit. Return on assets is 9.2%, showing how much profit it generates from its asset base. NOC trades at a trailing price-to-earnings ratio of 16.13, below the Industrials sector average of ~30x. Its free cash flow yield is 4.5%, a gauge of the cash the business throws off relative to its market value. A current ratio of 1.14 indicates the company holds enough short-term assets to cover its near-term obligations. Its earnings yield is 6.2%, the inverse of the P/E and a quick read on earnings relative to price.
NOC Valuation & Market Position
With a $77.98B market cap, Northrop Grumman Corporation sits in the large-cap segment of the market. Relative to its peer group, NOC's quantitative score of 64/100 is roughly in line with the peer average of 71/100.
FY2026 estForward Outlook
Wall Street analysts project Northrop Grumman Corporation revenue of about $44.00B for fiscal 2026, with EPS near $27.95. The estimate reflects 16 contributing analysts.
Net buyingInsider Activity
Over the past six months, Northrop Grumman Corporation insiders filed 30 SEC Form 4 transactions — 16 sales and 14 purchases. On net that is roughly 198 shares acquired (about $497K) — insiders putting money in tends to read as conviction.
NOC Financials
Fundamental Snapshot
Based on FMP financials and quantitative analysis · FY 2025
Bull Case vs Bear Case
Bull Case
- Recent insider buying suggests confidence in NOC's future, indicating that executives believe in the company's growth potential.
- Community sentiment has shifted positively, with discussions highlighting strong defense contracts and government spending in the sector.
- Market perception is buoyed by NOC's consistent delivery on projects, reinforcing trust among investors and analysts alike.
- The company's focus on innovation in aerospace and cybersecurity positions it well for future demand in a rapidly evolving defense landscape.
Bear Case
- Concerns about budget cuts in defense spending could impact future revenues, leading to uncertainty in the stock's performance.
- Recent bearish sentiment in online discussions points to worries over supply chain challenges affecting project timelines.
- Some analysts highlight increased competition in the defense sector, which could pressure margins and market share for NOC.
- Recent geopolitical tensions have led to fluctuating demand forecasts, creating an unpredictable environment for defense contractors like Northrop Grumman.
AI-generated arguments based on insider flow, news sentiment and technicals — not financial advice · April 2026
From the Earnings Call
“This includes an additional $200 million we expect to invest this year to support the increased production capacity on B-21. As a result, we now expect $1.85 billion in 2026 capital expenditures.”
— John Green, CFO
“Demand in this area has been exceptionally strong, and today, our missile defense business accounts for nearly 10% of company sales. Northrop Grumman Corporation is well positioned to capitalize on opportunities such as Golden Dome, as well as other program areas.”
— Kathy Warden, Chair, CEO and President
NOC Q1 FY2026 earnings call transcript · 2026-04-21
NOC Latest News
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Citi Keeps Buy Rating on Northrop Grumman (NOC)
Insider Monkey · Jul 5, 2026
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Trump marks Fourth of July with Mount Rushmore speech ahead of midterms
Investing.com · Jul 4, 2026
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Trump Faces New Questions As Report Says Boeing, Lockheed, Palantir and Other Federal Contractors Supported Both America250 and His Freedom 250 Initiative
benzinga · Jul 4, 2026
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Northrop Grumman (NOC) Stock Trades Up, Here Is Why
Yahoo! Finance: NOC News · Jul 2, 2026
NOC Analyst Consensus
Consensus Rating
Aggregated Buy/Hold/Sell recommendations from Benzinga, Yahoo Finance, and Finnhub for NOC.
Price Targets
Consensus target: $737.53
NOC MoonshotScore
What does this score mean?
The MoonshotScore rates NOC's growth potential on a scale of 0-100 across multiple factors including innovation, market disruption, financial health, and momentum.
Latest News
Citi Keeps Buy Rating on Northrop Grumman (NOC)
Trump marks Fourth of July with Mount Rushmore speech ahead of midterms
Trump Faces New Questions As Report Says Boeing, Lockheed, Palantir and Other Federal Contractors Supported Both America250 and His Freedom 250 Initiative
Northrop Grumman (NOC) Stock Trades Up, Here Is Why
Latest Northrop Grumman Corporation Analysis
Related Investment Themes
Leadership: Kathy J. Warden
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President
Kathy J. Warden serves as the Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, and President of Northrop Grumman Corporation. She joined Northrop Grumman in 2008 and has held various leadership positions, including Chief Operating Officer and President of the Mission Systems sector. Warden holds a bachelor's degree in computer systems management from James Madison University and an MBA from the University of Maryland Robert H. Smith School of Business. Her extensive experience in the aerospace and defense industry has been instrumental in driving Northrop Grumman's growth and innovation.
Track Record: Under Kathy Warden's leadership, Northrop Grumman has focused on strategic acquisitions and technological advancements, particularly in space systems and cybersecurity. She has overseen the successful integration of Orbital ATK, enhancing Northrop Grumman's capabilities in space-based solutions. Warden has also emphasized innovation and efficiency, driving operational improvements and shareholder value. Her strategic vision has positioned Northrop Grumman for long-term success in the evolving aerospace and defense landscape.
Common Questions About NOC (Industrials)
What does Northrop Grumman Corporation do?
Northrop Grumman Corporation operates as a global aerospace and defense technology company, designing, developing, manufacturing, and integrating advanced systems and products. Its segments include Aeronautics Systems, Defense Systems, Mission Systems, and Space Systems. The company provides solutions for government and commercial clients, focusing on national security and technological advancement. Northrop Grumman's diverse portfolio includes aircraft systems, weapons systems, cyber solutions, and space-based technologies, positioning it as a key partner for defense and aerospace initiatives.
What do analysts say about NOC stock?
Analyst consensus on Northrop Grumman Corporation (NOC) reflects a generally positive outlook, driven by the company's strong market position and long-term growth prospects. Key valuation metrics, such as the P/E ratio and profit margin, suggest financial stability. Growth considerations include ongoing government contracts and expansion in key segments like space systems and cybersecurity. However, potential risks, such as changes in government spending and geopolitical uncertainties, are also considered. Analyst ratings and price targets vary, reflecting different perspectives on the company's future performance.
What are the main risks for NOC?
Northrop Grumman faces several key risks, including dependence on government spending, which can be affected by changing political priorities and budget constraints. Increased competition from both established and emerging players in the aerospace and defense industry poses a threat to market share. Supply chain disruptions can impact production and profitability. Geopolitical instability and international conflicts can affect international contracts and operations. Managing these risks effectively is crucial for Northrop Grumman's long-term success.
How does Northrop Grumman Corporation compare to competitors in its industry?
Northrop Grumman competes with major players like Lockheed Martin Corporation, General Dynamics Corporation, and other specialized firms. Northrop Grumman differentiates itself through its focus on advanced technologies, particularly in space systems and cybersecurity. While Lockheed Martin has a broader portfolio, Northrop Grumman excels in specific niches, such as unmanned systems and electronic warfare. General Dynamics focuses more on business aviation and combat vehicles. Northrop Grumman's strategic focus and technological expertise position it favorably in key growth areas within the aerospace and defense sector.
What are the key financial metrics investors watch for NOC?
Investors closely monitor several key financial metrics for Northrop Grumman Corporation (NOC). Revenue growth indicates the company's ability to expand its market presence and secure new contracts. The profit margin reflects operational efficiency and profitability. The P/E ratio provides insights into valuation relative to earnings. The dividend yield offers a measure of income for investors. Additionally, backlog and book-to-bill ratio are important indicators of future revenue and contract pipeline. These metrics provide a comprehensive view of Northrop Grumman's financial health and growth potential.
What are the key factors to evaluate for NOC?
Northrop Grumman Corporation (NOC) holds an AI score of 64/100 (moderate). P/E: 16.1x vs the S&P 500's ~20-25x. Analysts target $737.53 (+34%). Not financial advice.
How frequently does NOC data refresh on this page?
NOC prices update in real time during U.S. market hours. Fundamentals refresh after quarterly filings; analyst ratings and AI insights update daily; news is aggregated continuously.
What has driven NOC's recent stock price performance?
Northrop Grumman Corporation (NOC) moves on earnings results, analyst revisions, sector rotation, and market sentiment. Notable catalyst: Strong market position in the aerospace and defense industry. See the News tab for the latest drivers. Past performance does not predict future results.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Always do your own research and consult a financial advisor.
Official Resources
Data provided for informational purposes only.
- The information provided is based on available data and should not be considered investment advice.
- Market conditions and company performance can change over time.