The HBTSS program’s objective is to detect and track traditional and emerging missile threats using infrared sensors and advanced processing capability. Photo: L3Harris

L3Harris increased its 2025 guidance after a strong third quarter financial results with growth in all four company segments.

Also, CEO Chris Kubasik told investors on Thursday he sees a possibility for an award from the U.S. government for a missile defense program before the end of the year. 

Aerojet Rocketdyne subsidiary saw the largest growth in Q3 with 13% year-over-year growth to $755 million in sales. The segment reported increased production volumes across key missile, munitions, and space programs, as well as new program ramps.

Space and Airborne Systems increased revenue 7% year-over-year to $1.8 billion. L3Harris attributed this to increased FAA volume in the Mission Networks business and higher volume in the Airborne Combat Systems business. 

CFO Ken Bedingfield told investors the segment’s operating income increased to 12.1% with improved program performance on classified development programs in Space. 

The Communication Systems segment, which includes satellite terminals, grew revenue 6% year-over-year in Q3 to $1.5 billion. The segment reported increased international deliveries for software-defined resilient communications and data-link equipment, as well as Next Generation Jammer program ramp, and the Electronic Warfare tactical jamming pod. 

Overall, the company reported about $5.7 billion in Q3 revenue, up 7% year-over-year. Net income was $462 million. L3Harris raised 2025 guidance from $21.75 billion to $22 billion. 

Kubasik discussed the possibility of upcoming awards for the Trump administration’s missile defense program, saying he sees potential for an award this year. 

“We feel very confident in our capabilities for what was formerly known as Golden Dome, the missile defense architecture. HBTSS [Hypersonic and Ballistic Tracking Space Sensor] was a success, and we’re waiting for the government to reopen,” Kubasik said. “I’m confident that there’s a scenario where maybe we could get an award or a competition in the fourth quarter.” 

Kubasik added that L3Harris is also waiting for the government to reopen to make awards for the Space Development Agency’s Tranche 3 satellites, which it has bid on. 

“We feel really good about the space business,” Kubasik said. “We’ve held that out as the symbol of our ‘trusted disruptor’ strategy, opening new markets. Clearly some growing pains as we’ve grown from a supplier or subcontractor to a prime; but we have the tools, the team, and feel good about what we’ve done so far and what we’re going to do in the future.”