Lockheed Martin vs. RTX: Which Defense Stock Is a Better Buy in 2026?
Lockheed Martin leans on government contracts and the F-35, while RTX balances commercial and military sales with global reach and lower debt.
Lockheed Martin vs. RTX: Which Defense Stock Is a Better Buy in 2026?
Overview
Choosing between the world's largest defense contractors involves weighing steady government contracts against commercial aerospace recovery. You must decide whether Lockheed Martin (NYSE:LMT) or RTX (NYSE:RTX) offers better value today.
Lockheed Martin remains a premier choice for pure-play defense exposure, while RTX provides a more diversified mix of military and commercial aerospace technologies. Both companies are navigating a complex landscape of shifting geopolitical priorities and supply chain hurdles in 2026.
Details
Lockheed Martin designs defense technologies across aeronautics, missiles, and space. It serves as a massive player among defense stocks, with a portfolio serving the U.S. Department of Defense and other federal agencies. The U.S. government accounted for nearly 72% of 2025 sales, and customer concentration like this adds a layer of risk to the business.
Source
Originally published at www.fool.com.
