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Introduction & Market Context
BWX Technologies Inc. (NYSE:BWXT) reported strong first-quarter 2025 results on May 5, demonstrating robust growth across its government and commercial segments. The nuclear technology company saw its stock rise 3.16% in aftermarket trading to $115.55, reflecting investor confidence in its performance and outlook.
BWXT, which serves as a critical supplier of nuclear components for the U.S. Navy and commercial nuclear facilities, continues to benefit from increased government spending on defense and growing interest in nuclear energy solutions.
Quarterly Performance Highlights
BWXT reported impressive financial results for Q1 2025, with double-digit growth in key metrics compared to the same period last year.
As shown in the following financial summary:
Revenue reached $682 million, a 13% increase from $604 million in Q1 2024, driven by strong performance in both government and commercial operations. Adjusted EBITDA also grew 13% to $130 million, maintaining a stable margin of 19.0% compared to 19.1% in the prior year.
Non-GAAP earnings per share showed even stronger growth, increasing 20% to $0.91 from $0.76 in Q1 2024. This outperformance was primarily driven by higher operating income, a lower tax rate, and slightly reduced interest expenses. The company’s actual EPS significantly exceeded analyst expectations of $0.77, representing an 18% positive surprise.
Free cash flow improved substantially to $17 million, compared to just $3 million in the same period last year, demonstrating enhanced operational efficiency and cash generation capabilities.
The following chart illustrates the key factors contributing to the company’s EPS growth:
Segment Performance Analysis
BWXT’s performance was strong across both of its primary business segments, with government operations continuing to be the main growth driver.
As detailed in the segment summary:
Government Operations, which includes naval nuclear components and nuclear fuel for the U.S. government, saw revenue increase by 14% to $555 million. This growth was driven by higher naval nuclear component production, increased special materials processing, and contributions from the A.O.T. acquisition. Adjusted EBITDA for this segment grew 17% to $117 million, with margins improving to 21.1% from 20.5% in the prior year.
Commercial Operations, which focuses on components and services for commercial nuclear power plants, reported a 10% revenue increase to $128 million. This growth was attributed to higher commercial nuclear components and fuel handling sales. Adjusted EBITDA remained stable at $14 million, though margins contracted slightly to 10.9% from 11.9% in Q1 2024.
Strategic Initiatives and Contract Wins
The first quarter of 2025 was marked by several significant strategic achievements that position BWXT for continued growth.
As highlighted in the company’s quarterly overview:
BWXT secured a $2.6 billion Strategic Petroleum Reserve Management & Operations contract, representing a major win in the government sector. Additionally, the company was selected as the sole bidder for the National Nuclear Security Administration’s Domestic Uranium Enrichment Centrifuge Experiment, further solidifying its position in nuclear technology.
The company also announced the acquisition of Kinectrics, Inc., a strategic move to expand its capabilities and market reach. This acquisition aligns with BWXT’s focus on strengthening its position in both government and commercial nuclear markets.
During the earnings call, CEO Rex Geveden emphasized the company’s strategic focus, stating, "Our customers are investing for the future and our value proposition rings true as we prepare for growth and navigate any macroeconomic condition."
Forward Guidance and Outlook
Despite macroeconomic uncertainties, BWXT has reaffirmed its full-year 2025 guidance, demonstrating confidence in its business trajectory.
As shown in the guidance summary:
The company expects approximately $3.0 billion in revenue for 2025, with adjusted EBITDA between $550 million and $570 million. Non-GAAP EPS is projected to be in the range of $3.40 to $3.55, while free cash flow is expected to reach $265 million to $285 million.
BWXT anticipates mid-single-digit revenue growth in Government Operations and approximately 50% growth in Commercial Operations for the full year. The company expects commercial EBITDA margins to improve to 14-15%.
The following bridge chart illustrates the key factors expected to influence 2025 EPS performance:
While operational improvements are projected to contribute $0.27 to $0.42 to EPS growth, these gains will be partially offset by decreases in pension/other income (~$0.08), higher interest expenses (~$0.08-$0.09), and a slightly higher tax rate (~$0.01).
CFO Rob Lemasters noted during the earnings call, "We are intensely focused on execution and are investing in our company to support customer demand."
With a beta of 0.67 and consistent dividend payments for 14 consecutive years, BWXT continues to demonstrate stability in volatile markets while positioning itself for long-term growth in the nuclear technology sector.
Full presentation:
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