Q1 2026 Aerospace and Defense Industry Update

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GCG’s Q1 2026 Aerospace and Defense Industry Update provides an overview of the latest trends in the sector, including recent equity market performance, valuation multiples, and transaction activity.

Select highlights include the following:

  • The A&D sector entered Q1 2026 with strong momentum, as the U.S. Department of Defense accelerated investment in autonomous systems, space-based defense architecture, and defense industrial base financing — with a proposed $20.2 billion FY27 budget allocation marking the largest military investment in over a generation.
  • M&A activity remained elevated in Q1 2026 with 113 closed transactions, as strategic buyers accounted for 65% of deal volume and continued to pursue assets that enhance capabilities, scale, and long-term strategic positioning — with Aerospace representing the largest share of activity at 54.9%.
  • Public market performance was strong across all A&D sectors in Q1 2026, with Aerospace Suppliers, Aircraft/Engine OEMs, and Defense Suppliers all outperforming broader indices — Defense Tier 1 led LTM returns at +45.6%, well ahead of the NASDAQ and S&P 500.
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