Aerospace & Defense stocks are booming. Here are the 20 top stocks! (2024)

In a world characterized by geopolitical tensions and increased global military spending, the aerospace and defense industry has emerged as a lucrative sector for investors. With technological advancements driving innovation and demand for cutting-edge military hardware and aerospace technologies, several key players within the industry are experiencing significant growth. Here, we present a curated list of top aerospace and defense stocks that are currently leading the pack:

Boeing Co. (BA):

Boeing remains a cornerstone of the aerospace industry, known for its commercial airliners, defense products, and space exploration technologies. Despite facing challenges in recent years, Boeing's diversified portfolio and strategic partnerships position it as a key player in the industry's resurgence.

RTX Corp (formerly Raytheon Technologies Corp):

Formed through the merger of Raytheon Company and United Technologies Corporation, RTX Corp offers a comprehensive range of aerospace and defense products and services. With a focus on innovation and technological leadership, RTX is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging market trends.

Lockheed Martin Corp. (LMT):

As the world's largest defense contractor, Lockheed Martin plays a critical role in supplying advanced technology systems and services to governments worldwide. From fighter jets to missile defense systems, Lockheed Martin's diverse product portfolio ensures stability and growth in the ever-evolving defense market.

General Dynamics Corp. (GD):

With expertise in aerospace, combat systems, information technology, and marine systems, General Dynamics is a stalwart in the defense industry. Its commitment to delivering mission-critical solutions and services makes it a reliable choice for investors seeking exposure to the sector.

Northrop Grumman Corp. (NOC):

Northrop Grumman is synonymous with innovation in aerospace and defense, specializing in autonomous systems, cybersecurity, and space technologies. With a focus on delivering value to its customers and shareholders, Northrop Grumman continues to expand its market presence globally.

Transdigm Group Incorporated (TDG):

Transdigm Group is a leading supplier of highly engineered aerospace components and systems. With a focus on aftermarket sales and a diverse customer base, Transdigm offers investors a unique opportunity to capitalize on the aerospace industry's growth trajectory.

L3Harris Technologies Inc. (LHX):

L3Harris Technologies is a trusted provider of mission-critical solutions in communication, space, and electronic systems for military and commercial customers. Through strategic acquisitions and organic growth initiatives, L3Harris continues to strengthen its position in the market.

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (HWM):

Formerly a part of Arconic Inc., Howmet Aerospace is a leading provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and defense industries. With a focus on lightweight materials and innovative manufacturing processes, Howmet Aerospace is poised for sustained growth in the years to come.

Heico Corp. (HEI):

Heico Corp specializes in aerospace and defense-related products and services, including aircraft parts, components, and electronic systems. With a track record of consistent performance and a focus on niche markets, Heico Corp remains a top pick for investors seeking exposure to the industry.

Axon Enterprise Inc. (AAXN):

While primarily known for its law enforcement technologies, Axon Enterprise also provides solutions for defense and security agencies worldwide. With a growing demand for advanced policing and public safety technologies, Axon Enterprise presents an attractive investment opportunity within the broader aerospace and defense sector.

These top picks represent a diverse array of companies within the aerospace and defense industry, each offering unique opportunities for investors. As geopolitical tensions persist and technological advancements drive innovation, these companies are well-positioned to capitalize on emerging market trends and deliver long-term value to shareholders. However, investors should conduct thorough research and consider their risk tolerance before making any investment decisions in this dynamic and ever-changing sector.

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20 Top Picks from the Aerospace & Defense Industry

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Aerospace & Defense stocks are booming. Here are the 20 top stocks! (2024)

FAQs

Are aerospace and defense stocks a good investment? ›

2 Stocks to Buy. Defense stocks can't seem to win. Shares of the five primes— Boeing, Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman, and RTX —have gained an average of roughly 30% over the past five years, about 50 percentage points behind the S&P 500.

What is the best defense stock to buy? ›

As of May 2024, the top five holdings in the iShares U.S. Aerospace & Defense ETF were:
  • RTX (RTX 0.81%)
  • Boeing (BA 0.9%)
  • Lockheed Martin (LMT 0.19%)
  • Howmet Aerospace (HWM 1.36%)
  • TransDigm Group (TDG 1.61%)
May 9, 2024

Why are defense stocks rising? ›

Ongoing wars and escalating conflicts around the globe may increase defense industry investment in the coming years, which could serve as a tailwind for defense stocks.

What is a good aerospace stock? ›

Comparison Results
NamePricePrice Change
BA Boeing$184.95$1.99 (1.09%) Pre 0.19%
GD General Dynamics$299.02$3.27 (1.11%) Pre 0.32%
ESLT Elbit Systems$200.64$0.42 (0.21%) Pre 2.55%
NOC Northrop Grumman$470.22$0.47 (0.1%) Pre 0%
5 more rows

Is now a good time to invest in defense stocks? ›

Is It a Good Time to Invest? Deciding whether to invest in defense stocks should be based on a combination of market analysis, geopolitical assessment, and personal investment philosophy. Currently, with rising global tensions and increased defense spending, the sector offers potential for growth and stability.

Is it smart to invest in Lockheed Martin stock? ›

Lockheed Martin in a year

Based on Wall Street analysts, Lockheed Martin is an attractive stock to buy. For example, Wall Street has Lockheed Martin generating $26.74 in earnings per share and almost $6.3 billion in free cash flow (FCF) in 2024.

What are the hottest stocks to buy right now? ›

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Company (ticker)Analysts' consensus recommendation scoreAnalysts' consensus recommendation
Amazon.com (AMZN)1.29Strong Buy
Nvidia (NVDA)1.33Strong Buy
Microsoft (MSFT)1.33Strong Buy
Bio-Techne (TECH)1.39Strong Buy
21 more rows

What is the best $1 stock to buy? ›

The best penny stocks under $1 in May 2024 are:
  • Ginkgo Bioworks Holdings Inc. [NYSE: DNA]
  • Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment Inc. [NASDAQ: CSSE]
  • Inno Holdings Inc. [NASDAQ: INHD]
  • Collective Audience Inc. [NASDAQ: CAUD]
  • Biomerica Inc. [NASDAQ: BMRA]
Apr 29, 2024

What's the best stock to buy and hold forever? ›

2 Top Growth Stocks to Buy Right Now and Hold Forever
  • Vertex Pharmaceuticals. Vertex Pharmaceuticals (NASDAQ: VRTX) has been known for its cystic fibrosis drug franchise for some time now. ...
  • Johnson & Johnson. Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) is one of the household names in the pharmaceutical industry.
Apr 28, 2024

Do defense stocks do well in a recession? ›

Pros of defensive stocks

Of course, any type of investing comes with risk, including the potential to lose money. But due to the consistent demand for goods and services associated with defensive stocks, they're seen as less likely to drop in value during a stock market downturn or a recession.

Are defense stocks recession proof? ›

Minimized Risk

However, these types of stocks have comparatively less risk than aggressive stocks. They're less likely to drop in value when there are events that trigger an economic downturn thanks to their steady nature and low volatility. In a recession, defensive stocks can protect you from further losses.

Should I invest in the defense industry? ›

Investing in defense ETFs may provide investors with opportunities for dividend income. Long-term investment: The nature of government contracts and the long development cycles for defense projects often make the defense sector a long-term investment.

Is the Aerospace industry booming? ›

The aerospace industry is growing strongly, showing growth levels that are on par with pre-2019 levels. This new surge in growth prospects was spurred on by increased air travel. Greater numbers are taking to the skies, increasing the demand for new aircraft, aftermarket products, and services.

What are the top 5 aerospace companies? ›

10 Top Aerospace & Defense Companies Shaping the Industry
  • The Boeing Company. ...
  • Airbus. ...
  • Northrop Grumman Corporation. ...
  • Raytheon Technologies Corporation. ...
  • General Dynamics Corporation. ...
  • BAE Systems. ...
  • Safran. ...
  • Leonardo S.p.A.
Feb 21, 2024

Who is the largest aerospace manufacturer? ›

Raytheon Technologies

Why invest in aerospace and defense? ›

Investing in defense and aerospace ETFs can be a strategic choice for investors who are looking to achieve specific investment objectives, such as portfolio diversification, technological advancements in cybersecurity, growth in government defense contracts and potential for income.

What is the outlook for the aerospace and defense market? ›

The global aerospace and defense market size was worth around USD 750 billion in 2022 and is predicted to grow to around USD 1388 billion by 2030 with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of roughly 8.2% between 2023 and 2030.

What is the top rated defense and aerospace ETF? ›

Aerospace & Defense ETF List
Symbol SymbolETF Name ETF Name% In Top 10 % In Top 10
ITAiShares U.S. Aerospace & Defense ETF76.87%
PPAInvesco Aerospace & Defense ETF52.65%
XARSPDR S&P Aerospace & Defense ETF41.94%
ARKXARK Space Exploration & Innovation ETF59.30%
4 more rows

What are the best aerospace and Defence companies? ›

10 Top Aerospace & Defense Companies Shaping the Industry
  • The Boeing Company. ...
  • Airbus. ...
  • Northrop Grumman Corporation. ...
  • Raytheon Technologies Corporation. ...
  • General Dynamics Corporation. ...
  • BAE Systems. ...
  • Safran. ...
  • Leonardo S.p.A.
Feb 21, 2024

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