L3Harris Lifts Sales Forecast After Revenue Beats Estimates on Strong Defense Demand

L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX) reported second-quarter revenue that surpassed Wall Street estimates, propelled by robust global demand for weapons and military technology. The company also raised its full-year sales forecast, though its shares dipped in after-hours trading.

Quarterly Performance

L3Harris posted total revenue of $5.88 billion for the second quarter, an increase of 8.4% from the same period a year earlier. According to LSEG data, this figure topped analysts' consensus estimate of $5.81 billion.

The company's bottom line also showed significant growth, with quarterly profit rising to $3.13 per share, up from $2.44 per share in the prior-year quarter. A key driver of the top-line performance was the missile solutions segment, which includes propulsion systems and hypersonic weapons, where revenue surged by 14%.

Updated Guidance and Market Reaction

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Following the strong quarter, L3Harris raised its sales guidance for the full year 2026 to a range of $23.2 billion to $23.7 billion, up from its previous forecast of $23 billion to $23.5 billion.

Despite the improved outlook, the midpoint of the new forecast falls slightly below the analyst consensus of $23.58 billion. In reaction to the report, shares of the company were down 1.35% in aftermarket trading on Wednesday.

Industry Context

The results reflect a wider trend among defense contractors, which are experiencing increased orders as the Pentagon and allied nations work to replenish stockpiles. The source material noted that inventories have been depleted by ongoing global conflicts, including the wars in Ukraine and Iran, leading to sustained demand for missiles, munitions, and advanced military hardware.