Defense contractor Lockheed Martin lifted its annual profit and sales forecasts on Tuesday, but shares slid 5% because the company's F-35 fighter jet program faced payment headwinds stemming from the government contracting process.

Third-quarter EPS of $6.80 beat expectations by 4.6%, driven by efficient cost management and improved margins. Key segments such as Missiles and Fire Control (MFC) achieved an 8% year-over-year uptick in net sales and a 15% boost in operating profits. The Rotary and Mission Systems (RMS) segment managed a 6% sales increase.

Key Takeaways Lockheed Martin missed revenue estimates as aerospace sales tumbled because of contractual and funding issues for its F-35 fighter jet.Still, the company revised its full-year profit outlook higher.