Northrop Grumman (NOC) Beats Q1 2026 Estimates as Stock Falls 3.98%

Recent Developments

Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) reported its first-quarter 2026 financial results before the market open on Tuesday, exceeding analyst expectations on both the top and bottom lines.

According to the company, Q1 2026 revenue came in at $9.88 billion, representing a 4.4% increase year over year and topping market estimates. Northrop Grumman posted net income of $875 million for the quarter, with GAAP earnings per share of $6.14, approximately 1% above the analyst consensus estimate.

Despite the earnings beat, shares declined in pre-market trading and continued lower through the session. The company also issued full-year revenue guidance of approximately $43.75 billion, a figure broadly in line with analyst forecasts.

Financial Snapshot

NOC shares closed at $630.80, down $26.18, or 3.98%, on the day. The previous close stood at $656.98. The stock's 52-week range is $450.13 to $774.00, placing the current price roughly in the middle of that band.

The muted-to-negative market reaction to an otherwise solid earnings report suggests investors may have already priced in the beat, or that the full-year guidance failed to provide a meaningful upside catalyst. Q1 revenue of $9.88 billion and net income of $875 million reflect continued demand across the company's aerospace and defense segments.

Wall Street View

Analyst sentiment on Northrop Grumman remains broadly constructive. As of April 1, 2026, the consensus breakdown stands at 5 Strong Buy, 12 Buy, 12 Hold, 0 Sell, and 0 Strong Sell, according to available recommendation data. This compares to the prior month's tally of 5 Strong Buy, 11 Buy, and 12 Hold, indicating one analyst upgraded their rating to Buy over the period. No analyst price targets are currently available.

Key Takeaways

• Northrop Grumman reported Q1 2026 revenue of $9.88 billion, up 4.4% year over year, ahead of analyst estimates.
• GAAP EPS of $6.14 came in approximately 1% above consensus, with net income reaching $875 million.
• Full-year 2026 revenue guidance of roughly $43.75 billion was issued, broadly matching Wall Street expectations.
• Shares fell 3.98% to $630.80 despite the earnings beat, reflecting a muted investor response to the quarterly results.