10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2003

RTX Corp Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2003

Filed October 20, 2003For Securities:RTX

Summary

United Technologies Corporation (RTX) reported a 9% increase in consolidated revenues for the third quarter of 2003, reaching $8 billion, and a 7% increase to $22.4 billion for the nine-month period. This growth was significantly boosted by the acquisition of Chubb plc in July 2003, which contributed two-thirds of the quarterly revenue increase. Foreign currency translation, primarily the strengthening euro, also played a notable role, accounting for one-third of the quarterly increase and half of the nine-month increase. Despite revenue growth, gross margins saw a slight decrease due to lower commercial aerospace volumes and Sikorsky helicopter shipments, partially offset by margin improvements at Otis. The company's strategic growth includes ongoing acquisitions, with Chubb being a significant recent addition. While commercial aerospace sectors face challenges, including reduced flight schedules and airline bankruptcies, the defense segment, particularly Pratt & Whitney's military revenues, continues to contribute positively. Research and development spending increased overall, driven by customer-funded programs like the Joint Strike Fighter, though company-funded R&D saw a decrease, particularly in commercial aerospace. Financially, RTX reported increased net income and diluted earnings per share for both the quarter and nine-month periods. The company also announced a 30% increase in its quarterly dividend and continues its share repurchase program. Despite a downgrade from A+ to A by Standard & Poor's, management remains confident in its liquidity and ability to meet future obligations. The company is managing its diverse business segments, including Otis, Carrier, Pratt & Whitney, and Flight Systems, through various economic conditions and ongoing integration of acquired businesses.

Key Highlights

  • 1Consolidated revenues increased by 9% to $8 billion in Q3 2003, and by 7% to $22.4 billion for the first nine months, driven by the Chubb acquisition and foreign currency translation.
  • 2The acquisition of Chubb plc in July 2003 for approximately $900 million cash (plus assumption of debt) significantly contributed to revenue growth.
  • 3Net income and diluted earnings per share saw an increase of 4% and 5% respectively in the third quarter and for the nine-month period.
  • 4Company-funded R&D spending decreased, particularly in commercial aerospace, while customer-funded R&D, driven by programs like the Joint Strike Fighter, increased.
  • 5Gross margin as a percentage of sales decreased slightly in both the quarter and nine-month periods due to lower commercial aerospace volumes and Sikorsky helicopter shipments.
  • 6The company announced a 30% increase in its quarterly dividend to 35 cents per common share and continues its share repurchase program.
  • 7Standard & Poor's downgraded RTX's debt rating from A+ to A, though management believes this will not impact liquidity or cost of capital.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary driver of revenue growth in the third quarter of 2003 was the acquisition of Chubb plc, a global provider of security and fire protection products and services, which contributed approximately two-thirds of the revenue increase. Foreign currency translation, mainly due to the strengthening euro, also significantly contributed.

The commercial aerospace businesses faced challenges, including decreased volume and orders due to reduced flight schedules, an increase in idle aircraft, workforce reductions by airlines, and recent bankruptcies. This led to declines in commercial spare parts volume and aftermarket service trends, partially offset by increased military revenues.

RTX's growth strategy includes acquisitions. The company invested $1.1 billion in businesses during the first nine months of 2003, primarily for the Chubb acquisition. Total expected investments in businesses for the full year 2003 are approximately $2.3 billion, including assumed debt, though actual spending depends on the availability of suitable acquisition opportunities.

RTX is involved in two primary legal proceedings: one with the U.S. Department of Defense regarding Pratt & Whitney's accounting practices for certain engine parts, which is currently before the U.S. Supreme Court, and a civil False Claims Act complaint related to the Fighter Engine Competition, scheduled for trial in Q2 2004. However, the company does not believe the resolution of these matters will have a material adverse effect on its competitive position, results of operations, cash flow, or financial condition.