New York, Jan 13, 2026, 13:55 ET — Regular session
- Lockheed Martin shares climbed roughly 1%, hitting a high of $564 during afternoon trading
- Jefferies raised its price target to $540 while maintaining a Hold rating, citing concerns over a possibly weak 2026 outlook
- Investors are focusing on the Jan. 29 results for insights into 2026 margins, cash flow, and production ramps
Shares of Lockheed Martin Corp climbed roughly 1% on Tuesday, reaching $556.55 in afternoon trading and earlier hitting a high of $564.00. Jefferies raised its price target to $540 from $500 but maintained a “Hold” rating, cautioning that 2026 revenue and EPS guidance may “slightly disappoint.” TipRanks
Timing is crucial. Defense stocks are moving based on policy signals and whether major contractors can boost production without sacrificing margins. Investors have been swift to punish any setbacks or delays.
Washington is ramping up efforts on the supply chain front. The Pentagon announced a $1 billion investment in L3Harris Technologies’ rocket-motor division to increase output of propulsion systems for missiles like Tomahawks and Patriot interceptors.
Lockheed on Tuesday announced it has delivered its 350th MH-60R “Romeo” helicopter to the U.S. Navy, marking a key milestone for its Sikorsky unit. Ali Ruwaih, vice president of maritime systems, said, “We are proud to support the U.S. Navy.” Media – Lockheed Martin
Lockheed revealed yesterday that Secretary of War Pete Hegseth visited its Fort Worth F-35 production line, meeting with employees. “We can’t deter the next conflict without the skills and capabilities you have,” Hegseth said. CEO Jim Taiclet described the F-35 as “the most advanced multi-mission fighter jet in the world.” Media – Lockheed Martin
Analysts remain divided on the next move. Jefferies highlighted potential triggers like fresh awards and program acceleration but warned Lockheed’s 2026 forecast might be conservative. One recent note also tagged the stock as a bit pricey compared to its “fair value” estimate. Investing.com
Risks stretch beyond the usual guidance. The Pentagon’s shift toward taking equity-like stakes in suppliers has raised eyebrows over potential conflicts and competition issues. Such scrutiny could easily rebound on the prime contractors who rely on those suppliers.
Lockheed’s set to release fourth-quarter and full-year results on Jan. 29, with a webcast kicking off at 8:30 a.m. ET. Investors will zero in on the 2026 outlook, focusing on margins, cash flow, and how quickly their high-demand programs are advancing.
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