General Dynamics Reports Q3 2016 Results

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Net earnings for third-quarter 2016 were $683 million, with fully diluted earnings per share of $2.21. Net earnings included an $84 million charge in discontinued operations related to the A-12 settlement reached with the U.S. Navy in 2013. 

"General Dynamics had a very strong quarter, clearly demonstrated by our operating earnings, margin and return on sales," said Phebe N. Novakovic, chairman and chief executive officer. "Our businesses are performing exceptionally well as we remain focused on operating excellence and continuous improvement." 

Margin

Company-wide operating margin for the third quarter of 2016 was 13.8 percent, a 90 basis-point increase when compared to 12.9 percent in third-quarter 2015. Three of the company's four business groups expanded margins over the year-ago period, with the Aerospace group achieving record-setting margins in the third quarter. 

Cash

Net cash provided by operating activities in the quarter totaled $499 million. Free cash flow from operations, defined as net cash provided by operating activities less capital expenditures, was $389 million. 

Capital Deployment

The company repurchased 2.3 million of its outstanding shares in the third quarter. Year-to-date, the company has repurchased 11.2 million outstanding shares. 

Backlog

General Dynamics' total backlog at the end of third-quarter 2016 was $62 billion. There was solid demand in the quarter across the company's portfolio. The estimated potential contract value, representing management's estimate of value in unfunded indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contracts and unexercised options, was $25.2 billion. Total potential contract value, the sum of all backlog components, was $87.2 billion at the end of the quarter. 

About General Dynamics

Headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia, General Dynamics is a global aerospace and defense company that offers a broad portfolio of products and services in business aviation; combat vehicles, weapons systems and munitions; C4ISR and IT solutions; and shipbuilding. The company's 2015 revenue was $31.5 billion.