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.
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.