Curtiss-Wright's 2026 Growth Catalysts: Defense, Nuclear, and Aerospace Momentum

Curtiss-Wright Corporation (CWT) has emerged as a standout performer in capital-intensive industrial sectors, leveraging its strategic positioning in defense, nuclear, and aerospace markets to deliver robust financial results and forward-looking guidance. With a record backlog of $3.9 billion, raised 2025 earnings per share (EPS) guidance of 19–21%, , the company is demonstrating execution confidence and capital allocation discipline that align with long-term growth objectives, according to a Curtiss-Wright Q3 2025 earnings release. This analysis explores how Curtiss-Wright's pivot to high-growth sectors, coupled with near-term order visibility and margin expansion, positions it as a compelling investment for 2026 and beyond.

Defense and Aerospace: Sustained Momentum and Backlog Strength

Curtiss-Wright's Aerospace & Defense segment has been a cornerstone of its recent success. The company reported $869 million in Q3 2025 sales, a 9% year-over-year increase, driven by strong demand for naval defense systems, submarine sales, and aftermarket services, as noted in a Q3 2025 update. , supported by a book-to-bill ratio of 1.1x, according to a Q3 2025 earnings release. The backlog provides critical near-term visibility, ensuring a steady pipeline of revenue as the company executes on existing contracts.

The defense sector's tailwinds are further amplified by global geopolitical tensions and modernization programs, which have increased demand for advanced technologies such as high-pressure fluid systems and motion control solutions. Curtiss-Wright's expertise in these areas-combined with its ability to deliver mission-critical components-positions it to outperform broader industrial peers.

Nuclear Expansion: AP1000 Reactor Content as a 2026 Catalyst

Curtiss-Wright's strategic pivot into nuclear energy is gaining traction, with the AP1000 reactor program representing a significant growth opportunity. CEO has highlighted that the company expects to see AP1000 reactor content expand to three times historical levels, , according to a Curtiss-Wright earnings update. This represents a material step-up from the prior $10–20 million content value and underscores the company's deepening involvement in the global nuclear renaissance.

While the first AP1000 order is anticipated in 2026, CFO K. Farkas emphasized that revenue recognition will depend on the timing of long-lead materials, with a more substantial acceleration expected in 2027, according to a Curtiss-Wright earnings update. Key markets of focus include Poland and Bulgaria, where Curtiss-Wright is actively pursuing contracts. The company's technical expertise in reactor components-such as valves, pumps, and instrumentation-positions it to capture a growing share of the $1.5 trillion global nuclear market, according to a Curtiss-Wright earnings update.

Margin Expansion and Capital Allocation Discipline

Curtiss-Wright's operational efficiency has been a key driver of margin expansion, , , according to a Curtiss-Wright Q3 2025 earnings release. This outperformance has been supported by cost discipline, supply chain optimization, and pricing power in its core markets. , including a $450 million share repurchase program for 2025, according to a Curtiss-Wright Q3 2025 earnings release.

, reflecting investor confidence in its long-term value creation. By prioritizing capital allocation to both growth initiatives (e.g., AP1000 reactor content) and shareholder returns, Curtiss-Wright is balancing reinvestment with rewarding equity holders-a hallmark of disciplined management.

Near-Term Order Visibility and Strategic Resilience

Curtiss-Wright's record backlog of $3.9 billion provides a buffer against macroeconomic volatility, ensuring consistent cash flow and earnings visibility. , , and diluted EPS of $12.95–$13.20-reflects confidence in its ability to execute across its diversified portfolio, according to a Curtiss-Wright Q3 2025 earnings release.

Moreover, the company's strategic focus on high-growth sectors-defense, aerospace, and nuclear-aligns with multi-decade trends such as energy transition, military modernization, and industrial automation. This positioning reduces exposure to cyclical downturns and enhances long-term resilience.

Conclusion: A Compelling Case for Long-Term Investors

Curtiss-Wright's combination of near-term execution, margin expansion, and strategic growth initiatives makes it a standout in the industrial sector. The company's pivot to high-growth markets, supported by a robust backlog and disciplined capital allocation, creates a virtuous cycle of reinvestment and returns. For investors seeking exposure to defense and nuclear energy tailwinds, Curtiss-Wright offers a compelling case: a business with strong operational leverage, clear revenue visibility, and a management team focused on maximizing shareholder value.