5 Best Performing Defense Stocks So Far in 2026

In this article, we will list the 5 Best Performing Defense Stocks So Far in 2026. Please visit 10 Best Performing Defense Stocks So Far in 2026 if you’d like to see an extended list and how we came up with it.

5. Astronics Corporation (NASDAQ:ATRO)

YTD Return: 49%

Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 43

Astronics Corporation (NASDAQ:ATRO) is among the 10 Best Performing Defense Stocks So Far in 2026, with year-to-date gains of 49% as of May 22. Over the past 12 months, the company’s shares have been up 171%.

Investors continue to pile into the stock, anticipating the ongoing momentum to continue, much of which is driven by rising sales, an upward guidance revision, margin expansion, and a record backlog. According to reports, Pertento Partners LLP on May 14 initiated a new position in the company by acquiring 815,333 shares worth approximately $59 million.

Photo by Arturo Añez on Unsplash

On May 12, Astronics Corporation (NASDAQ:ATRO) reported strong results for Q1 2026, with sales increasing 12% from last year to $230.6 million. The increase was mainly driven by strength in the Aerospace segment, up 11.7%, amid robust demand from the commercial transport market. Sales for the Test Systems segment grew 15.4% year-over-year.

Net income for the quarter came in at $0.67 per diluted share, up from $0.26 in the prior year’s period. Adjusted EBITDA increased 23.3% to $37.9 million. The company had new order bookings of $290.4 million during the quarter, bringing the total backlog to a record $734.3 million.

Considering an encouraging beginning to 2026, the management announced to raise its full-year revenue guidance to between $970 million and $1 billion, up from its initial estimated range of $950 million and $990 million.

Astronics Corporation (NASDAQ:ATRO) provides advanced technologies to global aerospace, defense, and electronics clients. Some of its offerings include lighting and safety systems, aircraft electronics integration, automated test systems, and distribution and motion systems, among other products and services.