10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2004

L3HARRIS TECHNOLOGIES, INC. /DE/ Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 26, 2003

Filed October 22, 2003For Securities:LHX

Summary

L3Harris Technologies, Inc. (LHX) reported a strong quarter ending September 26, 2003, with a significant increase in revenue and net income compared to the prior year period. Revenue grew by 24.2% to $559.2 million, driven primarily by robust performance in the Government Communications Systems and RF Communications segments, bolstered by ongoing defense spending and global security initiatives. Net income saw a substantial increase of 30.7% to $26.0 million, or $0.39 per diluted share. The company's improved profitability is attributed to revenue growth, better cost management resulting in decreased engineering, selling, and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue, and operational efficiencies. While gross margin as a percentage of revenue saw a slight decrease due to a shift in revenue mix towards government contracts, overall segment operating income showed strong growth, particularly in RF Communications. The company also successfully renegotiated its credit facility, enhancing its financial flexibility.

Key Highlights

  • 1Revenue increased by 24.2% to $559.2 million for the quarter ended September 26, 2003, compared to $450.2 million in the prior year quarter.
  • 2Net income rose by 30.7% to $26.0 million, or $0.39 per diluted share, from $19.9 million, or $0.30 per diluted share, in the same period last year.
  • 3Operating income significantly improved across key segments, notably Government Communications Systems (up 34.6%) and RF Communications (up 68.9%).
  • 4Engineering, selling, and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue decreased from 21.5% to 17.1%, reflecting successful cost-reduction efforts.
  • 5The company successfully renegotiated its credit agreement, securing a new $300 million revolving credit facility expiring in October 2007.
  • 6Cash flow from operations significantly improved, reaching $81.5 million compared to $25.8 million in the prior year quarter, driven by strong performance and capital management.
  • 7The company saw positive momentum in its strategic programs, including wins in classified government projects, satellite communications, and joint tactical radio systems (JTRS).

Frequently Asked Questions

Revenue growth was primarily driven by the Government Communications Systems segment, fueled by classified programs and new strategic contracts like the Joint Strike Fighter and Space-Based Radar. The RF Communications segment also experienced significant growth, largely due to strong demand for its Falcon® II tactical radio, influenced by global counter-terrorism efforts.

The company improved profitability through a combination of revenue growth and effective cost management. Engineering, selling, and administrative expenses decreased as a percentage of revenue due to cost reduction actions taken in previous periods, particularly at the corporate headquarters and in segments like Broadcast Communications and Microwave Communications. Operational efficiencies and improved program execution also contributed to better segment operating income.

The company reported a strong liquidity position with cash and cash equivalents increasing to $506.6 million. Working capital also saw a modest increase. The company secured a new $300 million revolving credit facility, providing enhanced financial flexibility. Management believes its current cash, operational cash flow, and credit facilities are sufficient to meet its needs for the next 12 months and beyond.

While the company is involved in certain legal proceedings, including a patent infringement case against Ericsson and environmental claims, management believes its liability in these matters, if any, is not significant. In the patent case, a favorable outcome resulted in a judgment of $43 million in compensatory damages, though an appeal is pending. For the environmental claims, plaintiffs have stipulated to dismissal under certain conditions.