10-KPeriod: FY2015

NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORP /DE/ Annual Report, Year Ended Dec 31, 2015

Filed February 1, 2016For Securities:NOC

Summary

Northrop Grumman Corporation (NOC) operates as a global security company with a primary focus on government and defense contracts. In 2015, the company generated $23.5 billion in sales, with a significant majority (83%) coming from the U.S. Government. The company's business is structured across four key segments: Aerospace Systems, Electronic Systems, Information Systems, and Technical Services. Financially, NOC reported operating income of $3.1 billion and net earnings of $2.0 billion for the year. The company demonstrated a strong commitment to shareholder returns, repurchasing approximately $3.2 billion in its own stock and increasing its quarterly dividend. Despite a slight decrease in overall sales compared to the prior year, driven by lower U.S. Government contract sales, the company maintained healthy profit margins and a robust backlog of $35.9 billion at year-end. Key risks highlighted include heavy reliance on U.S. Government spending and potential delays in appropriations.

Financial Statements
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Key Highlights

  • 1In 2015, Northrop Grumman generated $23.5 billion in sales, with 83% derived from the U.S. Government.
  • 2Operating income was $3.1 billion and net earnings were $2.0 billion for the year ended December 31, 2015.
  • 3The company significantly increased its share repurchases, totaling $3.2 billion, and raised its quarterly dividend to $0.80 per share.
  • 4Total backlog stood at $35.9 billion at the end of 2015, indicating a strong pipeline of future work.
  • 5The company operates through four main segments: Aerospace Systems, Electronic Systems, Information Systems, and Technical Services.
  • 6A notable risk factor is the significant dependence on U.S. Government spending and budget appropriations.
  • 7Company-sponsored R&D expenses increased to $712 million in 2015, reflecting continued investment in future technologies.

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