Updated Version 1 - RTX Raises 2026 Performance Forecast; Aerospace and Defense Demand Drives Order Backlog to Historical Highs

Added stock price movement in the 2nd paragraph, and analysts’ forecasts in the 9th and 10th paragraphs.

Reuters, October 20 - RTX (RTX.N) raised its full-year profit and revenue forecasts on Tuesday, as continued demand for commercial aviation services and military programs pushed its order backlog to a record $340 billion and boosted third-quarter results.

The parent company of Pratt & Whitney and Raytheon saw its shares rise 3% in pre-market trading.

The company now expects adjusted earnings per share in 2026 to be $7.65 to $7.75, up from the previous forecast of $7.10 to $7.25.

In addition, the company raised its sales outlook range from $95 billion to $96 billion, to $97 billion to $97.5 billion.

“Demand for our products remains robust, with newly awarded civil and defense contracts totaling over $81 billion, driving our backlog to a record $340 billion,” CEO Chris Calio said.

This further extends the strong performance momentum of major US aerospace and defense contractors, thanks to healthy maintenance spending by airlines, growing demand for aircraft engines and components, and sustained military spending against a backdrop of intensifying geopolitical tensions.

Collins Aerospace’s quarterly revenue rose 10% due to a 23% jump in original equipment sales for commercial use, while Pratt & Whitney’s revenue rose 10% on the back of a 21% increase in commercial aftermarket sales.

Raytheon’s sales increased 14%, mainly driven by navy programs and higher sales of land- and air-defense systems, including the Patriot, Standard Missile, and Tomahawk.

According to data compiled by London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG), RTX’s adjusted earnings per share for the quarter were $2.26, exceeding analysts' average expectation of $1.78.

For the quarter ended September 30, sales rose 11% to $24.97 billion, above the expected $24.08 billion.

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