Jonathan Siegmann

Jonathan Siegmann asked about the nature of expected directed energy orders in the coming months, specifically whether they would be for new development, continuation of existing programs, or actual production orders. He also inquired about the near-term prospects for the company's sensing business, comparing opportunities in new programs versus existing missile programs.

Answer

Joe Corso, nLIGHT's CFO, indicated that the directed energy orders would be a mix of all three: continuation of existing programs, new development, and low-rate production. Regarding the sensing business, Joe Corso and Scott Keeney, nLIGHT's Chairman and CEO, explained that existing full-rate production programs would drive more near-term revenue, while new programs moving into low-rate initial production (LRIP) would become a larger proportion of the sensing business over the next one to two years, with both segments experiencing strong growth.

Jonathan Siegmann with Stifel inquired about the nature of upcoming directed energy orders, specifically whether they would be for new development, continuation of existing programs, or actual production orders. He also asked about the near-term revenue prospects for nLIGHT's laser sensing business, differentiating between new and existing missile programs.

Answer

CFO Joe Corso clarified that upcoming directed energy orders encompass all three categories: continuation of existing programs, new development, and low-rate production. Regarding laser sensing, CEO Scott Keeney noted growth in both areas, with CFO Joe Corso adding that existing full-rate production programs are expected to drive more near-term revenue, while new programs will contribute more significantly over the next one to two years as they move into low-rate initial production.

Jonathan Siegmann with Stifel asked for the specific decline in the Electronic Technologies Group's (ETG) space organic growth for the quarter, noting the exceptional growth in the prior year. He also inquired about HEICO's penetration with new customers in the space and defense hardware provider areas, and its ability to maintain positions with these new entrants.

Answer

Executive Vice President and CFO Carlos Macau stated the decline in ETG's space organic growth was in the 'high single digits' compared to Q1 2025, attributing it to shipment timing rather than order volume, and expecting recovery in subsequent quarters. Co-Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer Victor Mendelson confirmed picking up and holding onto new space and defense tech customers, stating HEICO supplies parts regardless of who the customer is.

Jonathan Siegmann asked for details on the Electronic Technologies Group's (ETG) space organic growth decline in Q1 2026 compared to Q1 2025, noting the exceptional growth in the prior year. He also inquired about HEICO's penetration with new customers in the space and defense hardware area and its ability to maintain positions with these new entrants.

Answer

Carlos Macau, Executive Vice President and CFO, stated that the organic decline in space for Q1 2026 was in the 'high single digits' compared to Q1 2025, attributing it solely to shipment timing rather than order volume or backlog issues, and expected recovery in subsequent quarters. Victor Mendelson, Co-Chairman and Co-CEO, confirmed that HEICO has successfully picked up and is holding onto a number of new space and defense tech customers, emphasizing that customers need HEICO's parts and products regardless of who they are.

Jonathan Siegmann asked about the progress and potential acceleration of the opportunity for PMA parts in the military sector, given executive orders and directives from the Secretary of the Army. He also inquired about the differences in qualifying PMA parts for military versus commercial aircraft.

Answer

Eric Mendelson explained that the U.S. military operates many commercial derivative aircraft, for which FAA-approved parts and repairs exist, presenting a clear opportunity. He noted that while the administration is focused on execution, the process can take time. He expressed bullishness on the opportunity as the government executes, declining specific details for competitive reasons.

Jonathan Siegmann asked about the status of PMA parts for military aircraft, noting it's been characterized as a medium-term opportunity despite executive orders and directives, and inquired about the differences and complexities in qualifying PMA parts for military versus commercial aircraft.

Answer

Eric Mendelson stated that progress has been made on PMA parts for military aircraft, emphasizing the opportunity for the U.S. military to leverage FAA-approved parts for commercial derivative aircraft. He noted that while the administration is focused on execution, it takes time for government processes, but remains bullish on the opportunity.

Jonathan Siegmann inquired about the Q1 inventory build, asking if it's reasonable to expect inventory turns of one to two times a year eventually. He also asked about the typical sales process duration for additional OEM partnership opportunities like the recently announced deals.

Answer

CEO John Cuomo confirmed that inventory turns of one to two times a year are eventually expected, but not in the first year due to a conservative approach to ensure high delivery performance, with optimization anticipated in 2027 and 2028. He explained that the sales process for such OEM programs can range from three months to three years, depending on OEM resource reallocation and their definition of end-of-life products, emphasizing the need for a deep pipeline due to timing complexities.

Jonathan Siegmann asked about the Q1 inventory build for the APU program, specifically if it's aggressive to expect turning that inventory 1x-2x a year, or if it would be substantially less. He also inquired about the typical sales process duration for additional opportunities like the APU program.

Answer

President and CEO John Cuomo agreed with the 1x-2x turn rate but clarified that in year one, it would likely not turn twice due to conservatism for delivery performance, expecting optimization in 2027 and 2028. He explained that the sales process can range from three months to three years, depending on OEM resource reallocation, and emphasized that buying all inventory for quick transition, though painful for working capital, is the fastest way to transition a program.

Jonathan Siegman with Stifel Financial Corp. inquired about the government's progress in identifying and formalizing maritime programs, specifically asking for an update on the expected timing of announcements related to these initiatives.

Answer

CEO Thomas Bell discussed the Department of the Navy's MUSV program and Leidos' ongoing dialogue with the Navy and INDOPACOM. He highlighted Leidos' unique expertise in developing effective payload and mission packages for unmanned vessels, noting that the company is awaiting the Navy's firm plans for program announcements.

Jonathan Siegmann asked for an early outlook on the medical exam business within the health segment for next year, including any environmental factors that might influence its performance.

Answer

CEO Tom Bell confirmed strong trends driven by the administration's focus on reducing the backlog of age claims. He noted the introduction of a fourth provider in some regions but expressed confidence in Leidos' ability to maintain its position through innovation, technology, and strong customer satisfaction. He expects to sustain current performance levels and expand into other managed health services, with the team already preparing for the 2026 recompete.

Jonathan Siegmann asked for an early preview of how Leidos expects its medical exam business within the health segment to perform next year, including any positive or negative impacts from the current environment.

Answer

CFO Chris Cage stated that demand signals remain elevated due to the administration's focus on reducing the backlog of age claims. He acknowledged the introduction of a fourth provider but emphasized Leidos' strategy of staying ahead through innovation, technology, and customer satisfaction. He expects to sustain current performance levels and expand into other managed health services areas, with the team already preparing for the recompete at the end of 2026.

Jonathan Siegmann from Stifel asked about the opportunities for organic investment, particularly in the maritime space, given the strong demand signals from recent government funding initiatives.

Answer

CEO Thomas Bell confirmed excitement for organic investment opportunities aligned with the 'One Big Beautiful Bill,' including FAA modernization and border security. For maritime, he clarified that Leidos will leverage its autonomous vessel expertise by partnering with existing shipyards rather than entering the shipbuilding business itself. CFO Chris Cage noted that investments are being made in a capital-light manner, such as upgrading the Huntsville campus to increase product throughput.

Jonathan Siegmann asked for clarification on whether tactical selling and on-contract growth have normalized across the entire portfolio, given encouraging signs of recovery in civil, or if they remain below trend and pose a challenge for the next year. He also inquired about the Golden Dome program, a large new initiative, asking what public information might be available regarding Booz Allen Hamilton's role, given the company's suitable capabilities for the mission.

Answer

Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Kristine Martin Anderson stated that on-contract growth remains important, and while the funding environment has been choppy, there are encouraging signs in funding and pipeline, including for on-contract growth and new awards, despite a trend towards smaller, more frequent funding amounts. Chairman, CEO, and President Horacio Rozanski expressed excitement about the space business, including space domain awareness and ground systems, and confirmed active pursuit of opportunities within Golden Dome, expecting significant growth in this area, aligning with mission priorities and funding.

Jonathan Siegmann asked if tactical selling and on-contract growth have normalized across Booz Allen Hamilton's portfolio, particularly in Civil, or if challenges are expected to persist into the next year. He also sought an update on the company's role and public visibility regarding the Golden Dome program, given its alignment with Booz Allen's capabilities.

Answer

Executive Vice President and COO Kristine Martin Anderson stated that on-contract growth remains important, with encouraging signs in funding and pipeline, though the environment is choppy with a trend towards smaller, more frequent funding. Chairman, CEO, and President Horacio Rozanski expressed excitement about the space business and active pursuit of Golden Dome opportunities, expecting significant growth in areas where mission priorities, funding, and Booz Allen's capabilities align, emphasizing continued investment in these growth vectors.

Jonathan Siegmann of Stifel asked for Booz Allen's perspective on recent directives to change software acquisition and streamline the FAR. He also inquired about what aspects of this new procurement environment the company finds most exciting for its long-term prospects.

Answer

CEO Horacio Rozanski responded enthusiastically, stating that a rewrite of the FAR is overdue and would allow the entire industry to operate more efficiently. He highlighted that executive orders accelerating the use of technology, especially AI, are fundamental for national competitiveness and create significant opportunities for Booz Allen. Rozanski concluded that the push to deploy technology faster while removing barriers is what excites the company most and offers the most medium-term upside.

Jonathan Siegmann (Stifel) asked about the drivers behind CACI's strong margin performance, noting indirect costs below 21% of revenues for the third consecutive quarter, and later inquired about the Pentagon's reaction to CACI's acquisition scale, given the government's general displeasure with dividends, buybacks, and large-scale consolidation among contractors.

Answer

CFO Jeff McLaughlin attributed strong margin performance to favorable acceleration in the technology business, which has positive margin implications, and the successful reduction of indirect costs as a percentage of revenue despite strong growth. CEO John S. Mengucci stated that CACI has not encountered any Pentagon opposition to its smart acquisitions that support national security infrastructure and drive shareholder value. He emphasized CACI's alignment with government EOs, strong execution, and proactive investment, viewing potential divestitures by larger players as future M&A opportunities for CACI.

Jonathan Siegmann asked about the drivers behind CACI's strong margin performance, particularly the reduction in indirect costs, and sought insight into the potential for future margin upside. He also questioned the Pentagon's reaction to CACI's acquisition scale, given government sentiment against large-scale consolidation and certain capital allocation strategies.

Answer

CFO Jeffrey D. MacLauchlan attributed strong margins to a favorable mix from accelerating technology and effective management of indirect costs as a percentage of revenue, even during growth. He emphasized free cash flow as CACI's 'North Star,' prioritizing top-line acceleration and free cash flow generation over aggressive margin expansion. CEO John S. Mengucci stated he has not observed any government opposition to CACI's strategic acquisitions that support national security and shareholder value. He noted CACI's alignment with relevant Executive Orders and sees potential M&A opportunities if larger players divest assets.

Jonathan Siegmann commented on CACI's impressive Q1 margins, particularly with incremental sales being technology-driven, implying a high incremental margin. He asked for insights into the mix or any one-time benefits. He also inquired if the government's shift to more agile and commercial buying methods is driven by more customers adopting these approaches or existing customers increasing purchases.

Answer

CFO Jeff MacLauchlan confirmed strong technology margins, noting the segment's diverse components, some with higher margins. He stated that Q1 performance de-risks the historical first-half/second-half margin step-up, making it less pronounced this year. Mengucci added that the shift in government buying is a mix of both, with a significant increase in OTAs and CACI's deliberate positioning to support both commercial and traditional FAR/CAS environments, offering agile development and continuous software upgrades.

Jonathan Siegmann followed up on the government's evolving buying practices, asking if the impact is more about customers embracing progressive ways to buy software and agile solutions, or if it's the same customers buying more.

Answer

CFO Jeff MacLauchlan and President and CEO John Mengucci explained it's a combination of both, with a significant increase in the use of OTAs by both existing and new customers. Mengucci emphasized CACI's deliberate positioning to support both commercial and traditional FAR/CAS environments, enabling them to meet the government's demand for agility and commercial-like purchasing of software-defined technology, moving away from long development contracts.

Jonathan Siegmann of Stifel inquired about the tangible impact and timing of the DoD's software acquisition directive and the Army's system consolidation initiative, asking if benefits could be seen this year and if similar consolidation is expected in other military branches.

Answer

President and CEO John Mengucci expressed strong support for the government's focus on software, stating it is central to CACI's growth model in both enterprise and mission systems. He emphasized that CACI's approach is to develop software to support the mission, positioning the company well for consolidation efforts that seek efficiency and speed. He believes these trends will drive more software solutions across government.

Jonathan Siegmann asked about the drivers behind Teledyne's record underwater vehicle sales, specifically the relevance of increased funding in the last year's reconciliation bill, and sought an update on developments with the Army's LASSO program for loitering munitions.

Answer

Executive Chairman Robert Mehrabian explained that drivers for underwater vehicle sales include being the sole supplier to the Navy SEALs (with continuous revenue from parts/maintenance), new subsea products for infrastructure, anti-submarine warfare, observations, and security of harbors in Europe. He mentioned a range of autonomous vehicles for various depths and applications. Regarding loitering munitions, Robert Mehrabian confirmed Teledyne's participation in the Army's LASSO development program and hinted at new product developments and program wins.

Jonathan Siegmann asked about the drivers behind Teledyne's record underwater vehicle sales, the impact of increased funding from last year's reconciliation bill, and any developments regarding the Army's loitering munitions programs, specifically the LASSO program.

Answer

Robert Mehrabian (Executive Chairman) explained that record underwater vehicle sales were driven by contracts with the Navy SEALs, subsea infrastructure, anti-submarine warfare, observation/measurement gliders, and harbor security programs in Europe. He confirmed Teledyne's participation in the Army's LASSO development program for loitering munitions and mentioned ongoing work on new loitering munition products.

Jonathan Siegmann of Stifel inquired about the global demand for unmanned systems, the potential for supplying components at lower costs for higher volumes, and opportunities for increased capital investment in this area, given customer aspirations for more affordable capabilities.

Answer

Executive Chairman Robert Mehrabian emphasized that while cost is a factor, customers currently prioritize accuracy and capability, noting Teledyne's drones (Rogue 1, nano drones) are cost-competitive due to their lightweight and effectiveness. He highlighted that the Ukraine experience suggests accuracy and weight are as crucial as cost, and there's no single low-cost solution.

Jonathan Siegmann inquired about the strong global demand signals for unmanned systems, particularly the customer aspiration for lower costs. He asked about the attractiveness of supplying components and drones at much lower prices but substantially higher volumes, and potential capital investment opportunities in this area.

Answer

Executive Chairman Robert Mehrabian stated that while lower costs are a long-term consideration, customers currently prioritize accuracy and effectiveness. He highlighted Teledyne's cost-competitive drones, such as the lightweight Rogue One quadcopter and nano drones, which offer high capability. He emphasized that the Ukraine experience shows no single solution, and while cost is important, accuracy and weight are equally critical.

Jonathan Siegmann asked about Teledyne's product relevance to the 'Golden Dome' defense initiative and the potential size of the opportunity. He also questioned if the increased share buyback authorization indicates a slowing M&A pipeline or a view that the stock is undervalued.

Answer

CEO George Bobb and Executive Chairman Robert Mehrabian confirmed Teledyne is well-positioned for 'Golden Dome' due to its strength in space-based imaging and electronic subsystems. Regarding the buyback, Mehrabian explained it provides optionality, as M&A pricing is currently 'insane.' The company will be selective with acquisitions and may repurchase stock if it offers better value, supported by a low 1.6x debt-to-EBITDA ratio.

Jonathan Siegmann inquired about Teledyne's potential role in the 'Golden Dome' defense initiative and asked if the increased share buyback authorization indicates a slowing M&A pipeline or a view that the stock is undervalued.

Answer

President & CEO George Bobb and Executive Chairman Robert Mehrabian stated that Teledyne is well-positioned for 'Golden Dome' due to its extensive portfolio of space-based imaging and electronic subsystems. Regarding capital allocation, Mehrabian explained the buyback provides optionality, as M&A valuations are currently 'insane.' They will remain on the sidelines for large deals until pricing moderates, viewing their own stock as a potential better value.

Jonathan Siegmann asked about Teledyne's role and potential opportunity in the 'Golden Dome' defense initiative. He also questioned if the increased share buyback authorization indicates a slowing M&A pipeline or a view that the stock is undervalued.

Answer

CEO George Bobb and Executive Chairman Robert Mehrabian stated Teledyne is well-positioned for Golden Dome due to its strength in space-based imaging and electronics. On capital allocation, Mehrabian explained the buyback offers optionality, as M&A pricing is currently 'insane.' The company will remain disciplined and may repurchase shares if they offer the best value.

Jonathan Siegmann with Stifel inquired about the potential for additional frictions in Q3 bookings, given the historical weakness of the January quarter and the recent government shutdown, and whether AeroVironment anticipates challenges in catching up with pent-up demand and funded orders.

Answer

Chairman, President, and CEO Wahid Nawabi acknowledged the timing risk for task orders due to the ongoing budget situation post-shutdown. He expressed confidence in achieving the full-year guidance, noting that the company performed well in Q1 and Q2 despite the shutdown and is prepared with capacity and team to meet aggressive goals for the second half, anticipating significant task orders.

Jonathan Siegmann asked for clarification on the funded backlog, noting that the current $1.1 billion seemed lower than expected when combining AeroVironment's previous backlog with BlueHalo's reported $600 million. He questioned if accounting changes or other factors led to a reduction.

Answer

Chairman, President, and CEO Wahid Nawabi clarified that the $600 million figure for BlueHalo's funded backlog was not accurate, stating that the SCDE division had just over $300 million at the beginning of the period. He explained that significant unfunded contracts are in place, awaiting the release of authorized funding from Congress and the President, which is expected to convert into substantial funded orders in Q2 and Q3. Executive Vice President and CFO Kevin McDonnell added that contract signings in Q2, including the recently announced laser contract, could exceed $1 billion, potentially approaching $2 billion.

Jonathan Siegmann questioned the reported funded backlog, noting that the combined figure seemed lower than expected when adding BlueHalo's previously disclosed $600 million to AeroVironment's prior backlog. He asked if accounting changes or any backlog dropping out occurred during the merger.

Answer

Executive VP and CFO Kevin McDonnell clarified that the SCDE division (formerly BlueHalo) had just over $300 million in funded backlog at the beginning of the period, which increased during the quarter. Chairman, President, and CEO Wahid Nawabi added that significant unfunded contracts are in place, with expectations for substantial funded orders in Q2 and Q3 as authorized funding is released.

Jonathan Siegmann asked for clarification on AeroVironment's funded backlog, noting that the combined total seemed lower than expected based on prior BlueHalo disclosures, and questioned if accounting changes affected the figures.

Answer

Wahid Nawabi, Chairman, President, and CEO, clarified that the SCDE division (BlueHalo) had just over $300 million in funded backlog at the beginning of the period, not $600 million, and that it increased during the quarter. He explained that significant unfunded contracts are awaiting the release of authorized congressional funding, expecting substantial funded orders in Q2 and Q3. Kevin McDonnell, Executive VP and CFO, added that Q2 contract signings could approach $2 billion.

Jonathan Siegmann of Stifel asked about booking trends at BlueHalo since the acquisition announcement and whether its new segment could keep pace with the Autonomous Systems segment on bookings. He also asked if the higher CapEx plans were a recent acceleration.

Answer

CEO Wahid Nawabi expressed strong confidence in BlueHalo's booking ability, highlighting large strategic opportunities in space and directed energy. He confirmed that the increased CapEx plans have already been initiated to scale capacity for high-growth areas across the combined company. Following the question, CFO Kevin McDonnell clarified that the expiration of the JUONS contract vehicle, as Switchblade purchasing moved to PEO Soldier, was the reason for the large drop in unfunded backlog.

Jonathan Siegmann asked about SAIC's strategy to align with the Department of War's announced reforms and how the company plans to pivot its business. He also questioned the timing of the decision to change the company's direction given the dynamic environment.

Answer

Interim CEO Jim Reagan stated SAIC is ready to help implement the Department of War's changes, welcoming greater speed in procurement through vehicles like OTAs and accepting 80-90% adherence to requirements. He emphasized SAIC's readiness for increased AI content, citing the SilverEdge acquisition as proof. The decision to change direction now is driven by a focus on execution, listening to customers, and accelerating growth, with innovation spend being more closely mapped to pipeline opportunities.

Jonathan Siegmann from Stifel asked for details on the financial implications of Kopin's European announcements, specifically regarding disaggregated revenues, the new equity/minority interest line, and the anticipated pace of improvement and capacity development in Europe.

Answer

CEO Michael Murray stated that Kopin currently has zero defense revenue in Europe but has secured an $8 million development agreement with Theon for a color micro-LED for European, Southeast Asian, and NATO markets. He anticipates rapid expansion in 2026, projecting single high millions in revenue from R&D and production, escalating to tens of millions in 2027 and 2028, with potential orders from Europe as early as Q4 this year.

Jonathan Siegmann asked about the expected pace of improvement and capacity in Europe, and how investors should anticipate disaggregated European revenues and the impact on the minority interest line.

Answer

CEO Michael Murray stated Kopin currently has zero defense revenue in Europe but has an $8 million development agreement with Theon for color micro-LEDs for Europe, Southeast Asia, and NATO. He expects rapid expansion in 2026, with high single-digit millions in revenue from R&D and production, growing to tens of millions in 2027-2028, and anticipates initial orders from Europe potentially in Q4 of this year.

Jonathan Siegmann asked for comments on the XQ-58 flying with AI by the Air Force and an update on opportunities with the Air Force. He also sought a contrast between Kratos' open mission system architecture and the AI approaches of new entrants, given Kratos' partnerships across continents.

Answer

Eric DeMarco, Kratos' President and CEO, confirmed that Valkyrie has been flying routinely with the United States Air Force, including F-22s, F-35s, F-15s, and F-16s, deploying weapons and utilizing multiple AI/augmented autonomy packages. He highlighted Kratos' Athena jet drones successfully flying in swarms with leading VC-backed AI software. Mr. DeMarco expressed confidence in Kratos' long-standing experience with augmented autonomy, stating that the company is not concerned about new entrants and expects to secure jet aircraft contracts in several countries.

Jonathan Siegmann asked about the XQ-58 Valkyrie flying with AI for the Air Force, updates on Air Force opportunities, and how Kratos's open mission system architecture contrasts with new entrants' AI pitches.

Answer

Eric DeMarco, President and CEO of Kratos, confirmed Valkyrie flights with the U.S. Air Force (F-22s, F-35s, F-15s, F-16s) since 2019, highlighting their low cost and deployment with various AI/augmented autonomy packages. He emphasized Athena's successful swarm flights with a VC-backed AI company's software, reinforcing Kratos's extensive experience with flying AI-enabled jet drone aircraft and expressing confidence in their proven technology and affordability.

Jonathan Siegmann of Stifel asked for confirmation on the relevance of recent legislative funding, the connection between the Prometheus JV and Israeli defense needs, and the potential to accelerate Prometheus's capacity.

Answer

CEO Eric DeMarco confirmed the direct relevance of funding for low-cost cruise missiles and solid rocket motors, linking it to Kratos's engine business. He affirmed the Prometheus JV is directly relevant to Israel's needs, with demand for tens of thousands of motors. While acceleration is limited, he highlighted a significant opportunity to expand the JV into a merchant supplier for other primes.

Jonathan Siegmann of Stifel Institutional inquired about the drivers of the sequential margin improvement and asked for confirmation on the recent strengthening in the freight end market.

Answer

CEO & President Igal Zamir attributed the consistent margin improvement to long-term strategic initiatives focused on operational efficiency, automation, workforce productivity, and disciplined cost management, rather than any one-off benefits. He confirmed that the freight end market, which had previously shown concern over tariffs, is now strengthening, leading to increased MRO intake from cargo carriers.

Jonathan Siegmann of Stifel sought to reconcile the seemingly contradictory trends of a sequentially lower backlog in Federal Solutions with the company's high growth expectations for the second half.

Answer

CFO Matt Ophelis confirmed that looking at metrics like Remaining Performance Obligations (RPO) and funded backlog provides the correct view of the business's strength over the next 12-18 months, which underpins their confidence in the growth ramp. CEO Cary Smith reinforced this by noting that funded backlog is up 14% year-over-year, indicating strong near-term visibility.