Defense Technology Stocks Today: US Defense Contractors, AI, Drones and Cyber Names React to Policy Risk and 2026 Spending Tailwinds (Dec. 17, 2025)
NEW YORK — December 17, 2025 — Defense technology stocks on the U.S. stock market are trading in a familiar crosscurrent: long-cycle demand for missiles, drones, cyber defense, and space systems remains strong, but Washington-driven policy risk is suddenly back in the foreground. The sector’s tone shifted early Wednesday after reports that the Trump administration is preparing an executive order that could curb dividends, share buybacks, and executive compensation for defense contractors whose major programs run significantly over budget or fall behind schedule. Reuters+1 At the same time, the Senate is moving toward final passage of a $901 billion National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which