General Dynamics stock rises 6% on strong earnings and revenue beat

General Dynamics shares rose in premarket trading after the defense contractor reported first-quarter 2026 results that beat expectations on both revenue and earnings.

The company said revenue rose 10.3% from a year earlier to $13.5 billion, while diluted earnings per share came in at $4.10. Reuters reported that quarterly profit climbed 12% and said the stock was higher before the bell.

General Dynamics also said first-quarter order activity produced a 2-to-1 book-to-bill ratio, a sign that new demand continued to outpace shipments and revenue in the period.

The results point to strength across the company’s combat and marine businesses, which Reuters said helped drive the quarter. For investors, the update reinforces the view that defense spending remains supportive for large contractors as they move through 2026.