KRATOS DEFENSE SECURITY SOLUTIONS INC
For the period ended Dec 29, 2024. Filed Feb 26, 2025.
View on SEC.govAbout this filing
A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2024 · Filed Feb 26, 2025
KTOS$35.10+5.1%Stored close · as of Nov 6, 2026
What changed in Management’s Discussion and Analysis?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-02-13.
0001069258-24-000007
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-29; filed 2025-02-26.
0001069258-25-000008
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 107 previous paragraphs and 106 current paragraphs.
65 unchanged; 31 reworded; 9 added; 10 removed; 1 previous and 1 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 5 previous and 5 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (9)
Current report
On March 22, 2024, President Biden signed the second fiscal year 2024 Consolidated Appropriations package into law. This legislation reflects an $886 billion appropriation for national defense, of which $842 billion would be for the U.S. Department of Defense (“DoD”) base budget. On April 24, 2024, President Biden signed a bill providing a total of $95.3 billion in additional supplemental funding for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan, including funding for the restock of U.S. munitions capacity, and a fourth bill to impose sanctions and allow the use of seized Russian assets to assist Ukraine.
Current report
On March 11, 2024, President Biden submitted the fiscal year 2025 budget request to Congress. The request included $895 billion for national defense, of which $850 billion is for the DoD base budget. On May 22, 2024, the House Armed Services Committee approved the fiscal year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act. The bill authorizes $849.8 billion in funding for the DoD. On June 28, 2024, the House passed the fiscal year 2025 DoD Appropriations bill H.R. 8774. On July 8, 2024, the Senate Armed Service Committee filed their version of the fiscal 2025 National Defense Authorization Act at a level $25 billion above the President’s budget request.
Current report
The Federal fiscal year 2024 ended September 30, 2024, without Congress approving, nor the President signing into law a Federal fiscal 2025 budget, including the National Security and Department of Defense Budgets. As a result, beginning October 1, 2024, the U.S. Federal Government is currently operating under a Continuing Resolution Authorization (“CRA”), under which, no new contract awards, no increases in existing contract funding, no increases in existing production contracts and no transition from development to production, among other items, can occur. A second CRA passed the House and Senate on December 20, 2024, and was signed by President Biden on December 21, 2024. The bill funds U.S. Government operations through March 14, 2025. In addition to the CRA Resolution, President Biden also signed the Disaster Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act on December 21, 2024, which includes more than $100 billion in supplemental funding. The final version of the bill did not address the debt ceiling, which was set to expire on January 1. 2025. The U.S. Treasury’s available cash and any extraordinary measures taken should delay the risk of default for at least several months after the end of the first quarter of 2025.
Current report
On November 5, 2024, the U.S. Presidential and Congressional elections occurred, with Donald Trump being elected President of the United States and the Republican party controlling the Senate and the House of Representatives. President Trump took office on January 20, 2025, and the new Congress and Senate were seated on January 3, 2025. As a result of these recent elections, the current Fiscal 2025 CRA could be significantly extended. There is also the possibility that the industry could experience a full year CRA related to Federal fiscal 2025, with no Federal fiscal 2025 budget enacted.
Current report
The potential challenges presented by the recent elections, Presidential and congressional changes and the related transitions, the CRA, the current budgetary and deficit funding environment, Israel, Ukraine and Taiwan funding support, continuing heightened levels of inflation, ongoing supply chain disruption, and the challenging appropriations process, among other items, all continue to create significant short and long-term risks to the industry and the Company.
Current report
We do believe that our business is well-positioned in areas that the DoD and other customers currently indicate are priorities for future defense spending, including as identified in the 2024 defense budget and related Future Years Defense Program (FYDP), the President’s 2025 National Security and Defense Budget Request and the 2022 National Security Strategy document. As noted above, we believe that there is a generational recapitalization of weapon systems occurring with the U.S. and its allies to address peer and near peer threats, including Russia, China, North Korea and Iran, and the Company’s positioning as a proven provider of hardware, systems and software to address these threats for and with our customers and partners is recognized in the industry. We believe that the Company’s hardware, software and solution offerings, including jet unmanned aerial drones, rocket and hypersonic systems, C5ISR and air defense systems, jet engine and propulsion systems for missiles, drones, hypersonic and supersonic vehicles, microwave electronics for missile, radar and air defense systems and training systems, address mission critical priority areas of the DoD.
Current report
Results of Operations
Current report
Restructuring expenses and other. Restructuring expenses and other increased to $3.2 million for the year ended December 29, 2024 from $0.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The Restructuring expenses and other in 2024 includes an expense to accrue $3.2 million related to an employee benefit plan assumed by the Company in an acquisition completed in 2011.
Current report
The Credit Agreement contains certain covenants, which include, but are not limited to, restrictions on indebtedness, liens, fundamental changes, restricted payments, asset sales, and investments, and places limits on various other payments. Among other things, the Credit Agreement restricts our ability to pay dividends and make other restricted payments unless (a) the Total Net Leverage Ratio (as defined in the Credit Agreement) does not exceed 2.00:1.00, calculated on a Pro Forma Basis (as defined in the Credit Agreement) as of the last day of the most recently ended fiscal quarter for which financial statements have been (or are required to have been) delivered to the lenders pursuant to the Credit Agreement, (b) after giving effect to such dividend or other restricted payment, our Liquidity (as defined in the Credit Agreement) is at least $50,000,000 and (iii) no Default or Event of Default (as each such capitalized term is defined in the Credit Agreement) shall have occurred and be continuing at the time such dividend or other restricted payment is made.The Company was in compliance with the covenants contained in the Credit Agreement as of December 29, 2024.
Removed paragraphs (10)
Previous report
On March 9, 2023, President Biden’s fiscal year 2024 budget request was submitted to Congress, initiating the 2024 defense budget authorization and appropriations legislative process. The request includes an $886 billion proposed appropriation for national defense, of which $842 billion would be for the U.S. Department of Defense (“DoD”) base budget. The proposed legislation also caps national defense spending at $886 billion for fiscal year 2024 and $895 billion for fiscal year 2025. On June 3, 2023, President Biden signed into law a bill to suspend the $31.4 trillion debt ceiling through January 1, 2025.
Previous report
On July 14, 2023, the U.S. House of Representatives passed its version of a sweeping Bill setting Policy for the DoD, the Fiscal 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (“NDAA”), at $886 billion. The vote of 219-210 was largely along party lines, a departure from the typical bipartisan support for a bill that has passed every year since 1961. The Senate passed its version of the NDAA Bill on July 27, 2023 at $886 billion and included several significant differences from the previously passed U.S. House of Representative Bill. The NDAA is one of the major pieces of legislation Congress passes annually. The NDAA is closely watched by industry and other stakeholders and related interests, as the NDAA typically determines the specific spending outlays and purchases of the Department of Defense and other National Security related Agencies.
Previous report
The two chambers of the legislative branch of the U.S. federal government (i.e. the House and Senate) continue the legislative process on the fiscal year 2024 budget. Congress is also expected to continue efforts to reschedule appropriations bills and conference agreements, but these actions depend on the Senate calendar. On January 19, 2024, President Biden signed a continuing resolution authorization (“CRA”) to continue funding the U.S Government. Under the bill, funding for agencies overseeing agriculture, veterans affairs, energy, transportation and housing runs through March 1, 2024. Funding for the rest of the federal government now runs through March 8, 2024, or if earlier, enactment of the Fiscal 2024 NDAA. Under such CRA, funding at amounts consistent with appropriated levels for fiscal year 2023 is available, subject to certain restrictions, but new contracts and program starts are not authorized. If Congress is not able to enact fiscal year 2024 appropriations bills or extend such CRA, the U.S government would be subject to a shutdown, which could result in program delays or, cancellations, payment issues and/or other disruptions.
Previous report
The current budget environment, including Israel and Ukraine funding support, heightened levels of inflation, related supply chain disruption, and the appropriations process, continues to create significant short and long-term industry risks. Additionally, with the recent change of party in Congress in 2022, resulting with the Democrats controlling the Senate and the Presidency and the Republicans controlling the House of Representatives, considerable uncertainty exists regarding how future budgets, funding, timing and related program decisions will unfold, including the potential differing defense spending priorities of the Biden administration and of the Congress.
Previous report
We believe that our business is well-positioned in areas that the DoD and other customers indicate are priorities for future defense spending, including those based on the 2022 National Security Strategy document, the 2023 U.S. National Security related budget and NDAA and the recently released fiscal 2024 National Security Budget request and NDAA, and also the related Future Years Defense Program or five year projection of the forces, resources and programs needed to support the DoD’s strategy and operations.
Previous report
However, due to a divided Congress and Executive Branch, federal budgetary uncertainty, expected CRAs, potential budgetary restrictions or limitations, defense or other spending cuts, including the budgetary impacts of support for the conflicts in Israel and Ukraine, challenges in the appropriations process, the debt ceiling issue and ongoing fiscal debates, the short and long term impacts to the industry and to our business remain uncertain.
Previous report
Restructuring expenses and other. Restructuring expenses and other decreased to $0.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 from $6.8 million for the year ended December 25, 2022, primarily as a result of the $5.5 million charge related to the litigation settlement of a dispute with an international customer in our US segment during the year ended December 25, 2022.
Previous report
Income from discontinued operations. The income from discontinued operations was $0.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 and was $0.9 million for the year ended December 25, 2022, in each case primarily as a result of a gain from the release of an indemnification liability due to the lapse of the statute of limitations associated with a potential tax liability that was recorded in 2019 from the sale of PSS.
Previous report
In November 2019, a large training solutions program was terminated for convenience (“T for C”) by the customer. Under a T for C, a contractor is entitled to seek specified costs through a termination settlement process including (1) the contract price for completed supplies and services accepted by the government but not previously paid for; (2) the cost incurred in the performance of work terminated plus a reasonable profit on those costs; and (3) the costs incurred in settling with subcontractors and preparing and settling the termination proposal. However, we will not be able to collect the total withheld amounts until the settlement terms of the T for C have been negotiated and agreed to with the customer. At December 31, 2023, approximately $4.8 million in unbilled receivables remain outstanding on this project, which is subject to negotiation and settlement with the customer.
Previous report
The effective tax rate at December 31, 2023 for annual and interim reporting periods could be impacted if uncertain tax positions that are not recognized at December 31, 2023 are settled at an amount which differs from our estimate.
Reworded paragraphs (31)
Previous wording
Kratos is a technology, products, system and software company addressing the defense, national security, and commercial markets. Kratos makes true internally funded research, development, capital and other investments, to rapidly develop, produce and field solutions that address our customers’ mission critical needs and requirements. At Kratos, affordability is a technology, and we seek to utilize proven, leading edge approaches and technology, not unproven bleeding edge approaches or technology, with Kratos’ approach designed to reduce cost, schedule and risk, and enable us to be first to market with cost effective solutions. We believe that Kratos is known as an innovative disruptive change agent in the industry, a company that is an expert in designing products and systems up front for successful rapid, large quantity, low cost future manufacturing which is a value add competitive differentiator for our large traditional prime system integrator partners and also to our government and commercial customers. Kratos intends to pursue program and contract opportunities as the prime or lead contractor when we believe that our probability of win is high and any investment required by Kratos is within our capital resource comfort level. We intend to partner and team with a large, traditional system integrator when our assessment of probability of win is greater or required investment is beyond Kratos’ comfort level. Kratos’ primary business areas include, virtualized ground systems for satellites and space vehicles including software for command & control (C2) and telemetry, tracking and control (TT&C), jet powered unmanned aerial drone systems, hypersonic vehicles and rocket systems, propulsion systems for drones, missiles, loitering munitions, supersonic systems, space craft and launch systems, C5ISR and microwave electronic products for missile, radar, missile defense, space, satellite, counter UAS, directed energy, communication and other systems, and virtual & augmented reality training systems for the warfighter.
Current wording
Kratos is a technology, products, system and software company addressing the defense, national security, and commercial markets. Kratos makes true internally funded research, development, capital and other investments, to rapidly develop, produce and field solutions that address our customers’ mission critical needs and requirements. At Kratos, affordability is a technology, and we seek to utilize proven, leading edge approaches and technology, not unproven bleeding edge approaches or technology, with Kratos’ approach designed to reduce cost, schedule and risk, and enable us to be first to market with cost effective solutions. We believe that Kratos is known as an innovative disruptive change agent in the industry, a company that is an expert in designing products and systems up front for successful rapid, large quantity, low cost future manufacturing which is a value add competitive differentiator for our large traditional prime system integrator partners and also to our government and commercial customers. Kratos intends to pursue program and contract opportunities as the prime or lead contractor when we believe that our probability of win is high and any investment required by Kratos is within our capital resource comfort level. We intend to partner and team with a large, traditional system integrator when our assessment of probability of win is greater or required investment is beyond Kratos’ comfort level. Kratos’ primary business areas include, virtualized ground systems for satellites and space vehicles including software for command and control (C2) and telemetry, tracking and control (TT&C), jet powered unmanned aerial drone systems, hypersonic vehicles and rocket systems, propulsion systems for drones, missiles, loitering munitions, supersonic systems, space craft and launch systems, C5ISR and microwave electronic products for missile, radar, missile defense, space, satellite, counter UAS, directed energy, communication and other systems, and virtual and augmented reality training systems for the warfighter.
Previous wording
Our primary end customers are U.S. Government agencies, including the DoD, intelligence agencies, and other national and homeland security related agencies. We also conduct business with local, state and foreign governments and domestic and international commercial customers. In fiscal 2023, 2022 and 2021, we generated 69%, 69% and 70%, respectively, of our total revenues from contracts with the U.S. Government (including all branches of the U.S. military and including FMS), either as a prime contractor or a subcontractor. We believe our stable customer base, strong customer relationships, intellectual property, specialized and differentiated products, broad array of contract vehicles, “designed in” positions on strategic National Security platforms, our targeted investments in strategic growth areas, large employee base possessing specialized skills, security clearances, specialized manufacturing facilities and equipment, extensive list of past performance qualifications, and significant management and operational capabilities position us for success.
Current wording
Our primary end customers are U.S. Government agencies, including the DoD, intelligence agencies, and other national and homeland security related agencies. We also conduct business with local, state and foreign governments and domestic and international commercial customers. In fiscal 2024, 2023 and 2022, we generated 67%, 69% and 69%, respectively, of our total revenues from contracts with the U.S. Government (including all branches of the U.S. military and including FMS), either as a prime contractor or a subcontractor. We believe our stable customer base, strong customer relationships, intellectual property, specialized and differentiated products, broad array of contract vehicles, “designed in” positions on strategic National Security platforms, our targeted investments in strategic growth areas, large employee base possessing specialized skills, security clearances, specialized manufacturing facilities and equipment, extensive list of past performance qualifications, and significant management and operational capabilities position us for success.
Previous wording
We believe continued budget pressures (which are expected), CRAs, (which are also expected), future Federal Government debt ceiling issues, or Federal Government shutdowns could have serious negative consequences for the security of our country and the defense industrial base, including the Company and the related customers, employees, suppliers, investors, and communities that rely on companies in the defense industrial base. It is likely that budget and program decisions made in such an uncertain environment would have long-term implications for our Company and the entire defense industry. Additionally, funding for certain programs, including those in which we currently participate, may be reduced, delayed or cancelled, and budget uncertainty or funding cuts globally could adversely affect the viability of our customers, partners, teammates, subcontractors, suppliers, and our employee base.
Current wording
We believe continued budget and deficit funding pressures (which are expected), CRAs.(which are also expected), future Federal Government debt ceiling issues, or Federal Government shutdowns could have serious negative consequences for the security of our country and the defense industrial base, including the Company and the related customers, employees, suppliers, investors, and communities that rely on companies in the defense industrial base. It is possible that budget and program decisions made in such an uncertain environment would have long-term implications for our Company and the entire defense industry. Additionally, funding for certain programs, including those in which we currently participate or are pursuing, may be reduced, delayed or cancelled, and budget uncertainty or funding cuts globally could adversely affect the viability of our customers, partners, teammates, subcontractors, suppliers, and our employee base.
Previous wording
We continue to be affected by various unfavorable macroeconomic conditions including significant adverse supply chain disruptions that continue throughout the industry and for us, and related delays in the receipt and delivery of materials, parts, supplies, etc., which in certain instances and for certain items is significant. In addition, inflation and the related increased costs of inputs needed to execute our business, including materials, parts, supplies, consultants, subcontractors, vendors, etc. have significantly increased our business costs and have significantly adversely impacted our operations, profit margins and financial forecasts.
Current wording
We also continue to be affected by various unfavorable macroeconomic conditions including adverse supply chain disruptions that continue throughout the industry and for us, and related delays in the receipt and delivery of materials, parts, supplies, etc., which in certain instances and for certain items is significant. To mitigate the impact of these delays, we have implemented advanced and larger lot purchases of certain materials and parts which has resulted in an increased use of our working capital, which is expected to continue. In addition, inflation and the related increased costs of inputs needed to execute our business, including materials, parts, supplies, consultants, subcontractors, vendors, etc. have significantly increased our business costs and have adversely impacted our operations, profit margins and financial forecasts.
Previous wording
Also, a shortage of qualified labor, and the cost of that labor for the Company and its labor base is a significant operational challenge for the Company. The cost of labor has increased significantly and current challenges in hiring, obtaining and retaining employees, including those employees requiring National Security clearances, is adversely impacting Kratos’ ability to execute its business. There is also a significant industry wide labor shortage, including in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) discipline areas, and also including employees willing and/or able to obtain National Security clearances, and for high level manufacturing and production disciplines.
Current wording
Also, an industry wide shortage of qualified labor, and the cost of that labor for the Company and its labor base is a significant operational challenge. The cost of labor has increased significantly and current challenges in hiring, obtaining and retaining employees, including those employees requiring National Security clearances, is adversely impacting Kratos’ ability to execute its business. There is also a significant industry wide labor shortage, including in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) discipline areas, and also including employees willing and/or able to obtain National Security clearances, and for high level manufacturing and production disciplines.
Previous wording
In addition, recent actions by the Federal Reserve to increase interest rates have impacted our interest expense on our outstanding debt borrowings and the related cost of executing Kratos’ business. Each of these matters and issues are expected to continue for the foreseeable future and are expected to continue to adversely impact the Company’s operations, financial results and financial forecasts.
Current wording
In addition, actions by the Federal Reserve to increase interest rates in the past few years have impacted our interest expense on our outstanding debt borrowings and the related cost of executing Kratos’ business. Although the most recent actions by the Federal Reserve decreased rates slightly, the industry and Kratos are still impacted by rates that are higher than prevailing interest rates over the past several years. Each of these challenges are expected to continue for the foreseeable future and are expected to continue to adversely impact the Company’s operations, financial results and financial forecasts.
Previous wording
Revenues increased $138.8 million to $1,037.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 from $898.3 million for the year ended December 25, 2022. Revenues in our KGS segment increased $148.3 million primarily due to a full year contribution of revenues from the acquisition of the Southern Research Institute’s Engineering Division (“SRE”), which increased $26.4 million, increased revenues in our space, satellite, training solutions and cyber business of $64.0 million, increases in our C5ISR, turbine technologies, and microwave electronics products businesses of $65.4 million, partially offset by an $7.5 million reduction of revenues in our defense and rocket support services. Revenues in our US segment decreased $9.5 million primarily due to a reduction in our tactical drone-based revenues, as compared to the twelve months ended December 25, 2022 offset with the contribution of $6.4 million in revenues from the recent acquisition of Sierra Technical Services, Inc. (“STS”).
Current wording
Revenues increased $99.2 million to $1,136.3 million for the year ended December 29, 2024 from $1,037.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. Revenues in our KGS segment increased $40.9 million primarily due to revenue increases in our C5ISR and microwave electronics products businesses primarily resulting from increased activity for multiple air defense systems and programs, and growth in our turbine technologies, training solutions and defense and rocket support businesses primarily resulting from new contract awards, which collectively generated an aggregate increase in revenues of $88.7 million, partially offset by decreases in our space and satellite business, which has been primarily impacted by the extended CRA as well as the industry related OEM delays in the manufacture and delivery of software defined satellites, which impact includes the delay in the deployment of our commercial satellite ground equipment, with a total reduction of $47.8 million in our space and satellite business. Revenues in our US segment increased $58.3 million primarily due to a full year contribution of revenues from the acquisition of the Sierra Technical Services, Inc. (“STS”), resulting in increased revenues of $17.7 million, and increased domestic target drone production of approximately $13.2 million and a certain international target drone delivery which contributed $19.0 million in revenue during the twelve months ended December 29, 2024.
Previous wording
Product sales increased $61.4 million to $634.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 from $573.1 million for the year ended December 25, 2022, primarily as a result of increased production activity in our KGS segment, offset partially by decreased volume in our US segment. As a percentage of total revenue, product sales were 61.2% for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to 63.8% for the year ended December 25, 2022. Service revenues increased by $77.4 million to $402.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, from $325.2 million for the year ended December 25, 2022. The increase was primarily a result of the recent SRE acquisition, as well as increased volume in the turbine technologies and space, satellite, training and cyber businesses.
Current wording
Product sales increased $78.4 million to $712.9 million for the year ended December 29, 2024 from $634.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily as a result of increased production activity in our KGS and in our US segments. As a percentage of total revenue, product sales were 62.7% for the year ended December 29, 2024, as compared to 61.2% for the year ended December 31, 2023. Service revenues increased by $20.8 million to $423.4 million for the year ended December 29, 2024, from $402.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase was primarily related to increased activity in our turbine technologies and defense rocket support businesses in our KGS segment.
Previous wording
Cost of revenues. Cost of revenues increased to $768.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, from $672.3 million for the year ended December 25, 2022. The $96.2 million increase in cost of revenues was primarily a result of the overall increase in revenue discussed above.
Current wording
Cost of revenues. Cost of revenues increased to $849.1 million for the year ended December 29, 2024, from $768.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The $80.6 million increase in cost of revenues was primarily a result of the overall increase in revenue discussed above as well as the impact of increased labor and material costs.
Previous wording
Gross margin percentage increased to 25.9% for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to 25.2% for the year ended December 25, 2022. Margins on services decreased to 24.7% for the year ended December 31, 2023, from 26.5% for the year ended December 25, 2022. Margins on product sales increased to 26.7% for the year ended December 31, 2023, as compared to 24.4% for the year ended December 25, 2022. Margins in the KGS segment increased to 27.2% for the year ended December 31, 2023, from 26.8% for the year ended December 25, 2022. This change was primarily due to a more favorable mix of revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023. Margins in the US segment increased to 20.7% for the year ended December 31, 2023 from 20.1% for the year ended December 25, 2022. primarily due to a more favorable mix of products produced and shipped in the year ended December 31, 2023.
Current wording
Gross margin percentage decreased to 25.3% for the year ended December 29, 2024, compared to 25.9% for the year ended December 31, 2023. Margins on services increased to 26.8% for the year ended December 29, 2024, from 24.7% for the year ended December 31, 2023. Margins on product sales decreased to 24.4% for the year ended December 29, 2024, as compared to 26.7% for the year ended December 31, 2023. Margins in the KGS segment increased to 27.6% for the year ended December 29, 2024, from 27.2% for the year ended December 31, 2023. This change was primarily due to a more favorable mix of revenues for the year ended December 29, 2024. Margins in the US segment decreased to 17.9% for the year ended December 29, 2024 from 20.7% for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily due to the mix of revenues, revenue volume and resources, including the impact of increased material and subcontractor costs on multi-year fixed price contracts.
Previous wording
Selling, general and administrative expenses (SG&A). SG&A increased $15.3 million to $197.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, from $182.5 million for the year ended December 25, 2022, primarily reflecting the increase in revenues. As a percentage of revenues, SG&A decreased to 19.1% for the year ended December 31, 2023 from 20.3% for the year ended December 25, 2022 due primarily to the increase in revenues in the year ended December 31, 2023.
Current wording
Selling, general and administrative expenses (SG&A). SG&A increased $16.2 million to $214.0 million for the year ended December 29, 2024, from $197.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily reflecting the increase in costs to support higher revenues including increases in stock compensation expense of $4.5 million and SG&A-related depreciation and amortization of $4.5 million. As a percentage of revenues, SG&A decreased to 18.8% for the year ended December 29, 2024 from 19.1% for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Previous wording
Research and development (R&D) expenses. R&D expenses were $38.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 and $38.6 million for the year ended December 25, 2022, with the primary increases in expenses in our space and satellite communications business, offset by a net reduction in our unmanned systems business. As a percentage of revenues, R&D decreased to 3.7% of revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023, from 4.3% of revenues for the year ended December 25, 2022. R&D expenses are made by the Company, typically in conjunction with our customers, for the Company to achieve a “first to market” position with our products or technology. We also invest in R&D expenses to achieve market leading “designed in”and “first to market” positions on major programs, platforms or systems.
Current wording
Research and development (R&D) expenses. R&D expenses were $40.3 million for the year ended December 29, 2024 and $38.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, with the primary increases in expenses in our unmanned systems and microwave products businesses, offset by a net reduction in our space and satellite communications business. As a percentage of revenues, R&D decreased to 3.5% of revenues for the year ended December 29, 2024, from 3.7% of revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023. R&D expenses are made by the Company, typically in conjunction with our customers, for the Company to achieve a “first to market” position with our products or technology. We also invest in R&D expenses to achieve market leading “designed in” and “first to market” positions on major programs, platforms or systems.
Previous wording
Total other expense, net. Other expense, net, decreased to $20.0 million from $30.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2023 and December 25, 2022, respectively. The decrease in other expense, net, of $10.1 million was primarily related to the $13.0 million loss on the extinguishment of our $300 million 6.5% Senior Secured Notes due November 2025 (“Senior Secured Notes”) during the year ended December 25, 2022, which was partially offset by a $2.8 million increase in interest expense for the year ended December 31, 2023 due to increased interest rates.
Current wording
Total other expense, net. Other expense, net, decreased to $2.5 million from $20.0 million for the years ended December 29, 2024 and December 31, 2023, respectively. The decrease in other expense, net, of $17.5 million was primarily related to a decrease in interest expense of $6.5 million, resulting from reduced debt balances and an increase in interest income of $11.0 million during the year ended December 29, 2024, resulting from the increased cash balances following the February 27, 2024 public stock offering which raised approximately $331.2 million in net proceeds.
Previous wording
Provision for income taxes from continuing operations. The Company recorded an income tax provision of $8.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, and an income tax provision of $1.4 million for the year ended December 25, 2022. The income tax provision for 2022 includes a $4.9 million expense related to the increase in the Company’s valuation allowance on U.S. deferred tax assets related to certain state Net Operating Losses, capital loss carryforwards and federal research and development credits.
Current wording
Provision for income taxes. The Company recorded an income tax provision of $10.2 million for the year ended December 29, 2024, and an income tax provision of $8.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023. The income tax provision for 2024 includes a $4.2 million benefit related to the decrease in the Company’s valuation allowance on U.S. deferred tax assets.The income tax provision for 2023 includes a $2.0 million benefit related to the decrease in the Company’s valuation allowance on deferred tax assets.
Previous wording
As of December 31, 2023, we had cash and cash equivalents of $72.8 million compared with cash and cash equivalents of $81.3 million as of December 25, 2022, which includes $44.1 million and $18.9 million, respectively, of cash and cash equivalents held by our foreign subsidiaries. We are not presently aware of any restrictions on the repatriation of these funds; however, earnings of these foreign subsidiaries are essentially considered permanently invested in these foreign subsidiaries. If these funds were needed to fund our operations or satisfy obligations in the U.S. they could be repatriated, and their repatriation into the U.S. may cause us to incur additional foreign withholding taxes. We do not currently intend to repatriate these earnings.
Current wording
As of December 29, 2024, we had cash and cash equivalents of $329.3 million compared with cash and cash equivalents of $72.8 million as of December 31, 2023, which includes $40.2 million and $44.1 million, respectively, of cash and cash equivalents held by our foreign subsidiaries. We are not presently aware of any restrictions on the repatriation of these funds; however, earnings of these foreign subsidiaries are essentially considered permanently invested in these foreign subsidiaries. If these funds were needed to fund our operations or satisfy obligations in the U.S. they could be repatriated, and their repatriation into the U.S. may cause us to incur additional foreign withholding taxes. We do not currently intend to repatriate these earnings.
Previous wording
Our total long-term debt, decreased by $30.0 million to $227.5 million as of December 31, 2023 from $257.5 million as of December 25, 2022. On February 18, 2022, we completed the refinancing of our then-outstanding $90 million revolving credit facility and $300 million of Senior Secured Notes, with a new 5-year $200 million Revolving Credit Facility and 5-year $200 million Term Loan A issued pursuant to the 2022 Credit Facility. We incurred debt issuance costs of $3.3 million associated with the 2022 Credit Facility. We drew approximately $200 million under the Term Loan A and $100 million on the new Revolving Credit Facility at the time of the refinancing transaction (as more fully described in Note 5 of the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements).
Current wording
Our total long-term debt, decreased by $42.5 million to $185.0 million as of December 29, 2024 from $227.5 million as of December 31, 2023. On February 18, 2022, we completed the refinancing of our then-outstanding $90 million revolving credit facility and $300 million of Senior Secured Notes, with a new 5-year $200 million Revolving Credit Facility and 5-year $200 million Term Loan A issued pursuant to the 2022 Credit Facility. We incurred debt issuance costs of $3.3 million associated with the 2022 Credit Facility. We drew approximately $200 million under the Term Loan A and $100 million on the new Revolving Credit Facility at the time of the refinancing transaction (as more fully described in Note 5 of the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements).
Previous wording
As of December 31, 2023, we have $192.5 million outstanding on the Term Loan A and net borrowings of $35.0 million outstanding on the Revolving Credit Facility, with $165.0 million remaining in borrowing capacity, less approximately $10.2 million for outstanding letters of credit.
Current wording
As of December 29, 2024, we have $185.0 million outstanding on the Term Loan A and net borrowings of $0.0 million outstanding on the Revolving Credit Facility, with $200.0 million remaining in borrowing capacity, less approximately $9.6 million for outstanding letters of credit (as more fully described in Note 5 of the accompanying consolidated financial statements).
Previous wording
We use our operating cash flow to finance trade accounts receivable, fund necessary increases in inventory and internal investments related to non-recurring engineering and software development, fund capital expenditures, fund our IR&D investments and our ongoing operations, service our debt and make strategic acquisitions. Financing trade accounts receivable is necessary because, on average, our customers do not pay us as quickly as we pay our vendors and employees for their goods and services since a number of our receivables are contractually billable and due to us only when certain contractual milestones are achieved, certain of which are not achieved until final shipment and acceptance of our products. Financing increases in inventory balances is necessary to fulfill shipment requirements to meet delivery schedules of our customers. Cash from continuing operations is primarily derived from our customer contracts in progress and associated changes in working capital components. Our days sales outstanding (“DSO”) have decreased to 116 days as of December 31, 2023 from 134 days as of December 25, 2022. Our DSOs are impacted by the achievement of contractual billing milestones, such as equipment shipments and deliveries on certain products, and for certain flight requirements that must be fulfilled on certain aerial target programs, or final billings which are not due until completion on certain projects, and therefore we are unable to contractually bill for amounts outstanding related to those milestones at this time.
Current wording
We use our operating cash flow to finance trade accounts receivable, fund necessary increases in inventory and internal investments related to non-recurring engineering and software development, fund capital expenditures, fund our IR&D investments and our ongoing operations, service our debt and make strategic acquisitions. Financing trade accounts receivable is necessary because, on average, our customers do not pay us as quickly as we pay our vendors and employees for their goods and services since a number of our receivables are contractually billable and due to us only when certain contractual milestones are achieved, certain of which are not achieved until final shipment and acceptance of our products. Financing increases in inventory balances is necessary to fulfill shipment requirements to meet delivery schedules of our customers. Cash from consolidated operations is primarily derived from our customer contracts in progress and associated changes in working capital components. Our days sales outstanding (“DSO”) have decreased to 104 days as of December 29, 2024 from 116 days as of December 31, 2023. Our DSOs are impacted by the achievement of contractual billing milestones, such as equipment shipments and deliveries on certain products, and for certain flight requirements that must be fulfilled on certain aerial target programs, or final billings which are not due until completion on certain projects, and therefore we are unable to contractually bill for amounts outstanding related to those milestones at this time.
Previous wording
A summary of our net cash provided by (used in) operating activities from continuing operations from our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows is as follows (in millions):
Current wording
A summary of our net cash provided by operating activities from our Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows is as follows (in millions):
Previous wording
Our net cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations was $65.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily as a result of the net income from continuing operations of $2.2 million and noncash charges of $74.2 million partially offset by changes in net working capital accounts of $11.2 million, which included customer advanced payments reflected as an increase in Billings in Excess of Costs of $28.4 million. Net cash used in operating activities from continuing operations was $25.6 million for the year ended December 25, 2022, primarily as a result of net loss from continuing operations of $34.1 million, and changes in working capital requirements of $74.9 million, including increases in receivables and inventory balances reflecting advance payments to mitigate supply chain disruptions, and internal investments we are making in certain rocket motors and software products of approximately $16.7 million, partially offset by noncash charges of $83.4 million.
Current wording
Our net cash provided by operating activities was $49.7 million for the year ended December 29, 2024, primarily as a result of the net income of $16.3 million and noncash charges of $86.8 million which includes stock compensation, depreciation and amortization, which was partially offset by changes in net working capital accounts of $53.4 million, which included customer advance payments reflected as a decrease in Billings in Excess of Costs of $25.7 million. Net cash provided by operating activities was $65.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily as a result of the net income of $2.2 million and noncash charges of $74.2 million which includes stock compensation, depreciation and amortization, which was partially offset by changes in net working capital accounts of $11.4 million, which included customer advance payments reflected as an increase in Billings in Excess of Costs of $28.4 million.
Previous wording
Our net cash used in investing activities from continuing operations is summarized as follows (in millions):
Current wording
Our net cash used in investing activities is summarized as follows (in millions):
Previous wording
Net cash used in investing activities from continuing operations for year ended December 31, 2023 is comprised of $52.4 million in capital expenditures partially offset by the receipt of $8.3 million of proceeds from the sale of Valkyries which had been previously booked as capital assets as they were produced ahead of government contract award and $0.3 million cash acquired related to the acquisition of STS. Net cash used in investing activities from continuing operations for the year ended December 25, 2022 was comprised of $74.0 million related to the acquisition of SRE, $37.5 million related to the acquisition of Cosmic, $15.3 million for the remaining purchase price due on the acquisition of CTT, and a $5.4 million payment due under the acquisition agreement for KTT Core, of which we purchased a controlling interest in February 2019. During the year ended December 31, 2023, capital expenditures of approximately $25.1 million were incurred in our US business, primarily related to our unmanned combat target initiative. We expect our capital expenditures for our fiscal year 2024 to continue to be significant for investments we are making, including in our US business totaling approximately $28 to $32 million, including approximately $18 to $22 million for capital aerial targets and related support equipment.
Current wording
Net cash used in investing activities for year ended December 29, 2024 is comprised of $58.2 million in capital expenditures and $11.5 million in cash paid (including subsequent payments of $0.2 million for amounts payable to former employees of FTT) for the remaining minority interests in KTT Core (along with a corresponding issuance of 583,700 shares of Kratos common stock valued at $11.3 million). Net cash used in investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 is comprised of $52.4 million in capital expenditures partially offset by the receipt of $8.3 million of proceeds from the sale of Valkyries which had been previously booked as capital assets as they were produced ahead of government contract award and $0.3 million cash acquired related to the acquisition of STS. During the year ended December 29, 2024, capital expenditures of approximately $28.1 million were incurred in our US business, primarily related to our manufacture of two production lots of Valkyries prior to contract award to meet anticipated customer orders and requirements. We expect our capital expenditures for our fiscal year 2025 to continue to be significant for investments we are making, including in our US business totaling approximately $35 to $40 million of estimated expenditures, including approximately $28 to $30 million estimated for capital aerial targets and related support equipment as well as other manufacturing facility expansion for our Microwave Products and Defense and Rocket Support businesses.
Previous wording
Our net cash used in financing activities from continuing operations is summarized as follows (in millions):
Current wording
Our net cash provided by (used in) financing activities is summarized as follows (in millions):
Previous wording
Net cash used in financing activities from continuing operations was $30.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, which included $5.0 million of principal payments on our $200 million Term Loan A, a $94.0 million payment (partially offset by a $69.0 million draw) on the new Revolving Credit Facility, and a $2.0 million payment to settle debt acquired related to the STS acquisition, payroll withholding taxes paid from vested restricted stock traded for taxes of $3.7 million and payments made on financing lease obligations of $1.5 million. These uses were partially offset by employee stock purchase plan receipts of $6.5 million. Net cash used in financing activities from continuing operations was $63.3 million for the year ended December 25, 2022, which included $309.8 million used to redeem our $300 million of Senior Secured Notes including the call premium of $9.8 million, debt issuance costs of $3.3 million, payroll withholding taxes paid from vested restricted stock traded for taxes of $12.5 million and payments made on financing lease obligations of $1.4 million. These uses were partially offset by $300 million in proceeds from our 2022 Credit Facility (partially offset by $2.5 million of principal payments on our $200 million Term Loan A and a $40 million payment on the new Revolving Credit Facility) and employee stock purchase plan receipts of $6.2 million.
Current wording
Net cash provided by financing activities was $277.6 million for the year ended December 29, 2024, which included employee stock purchase plan receipts of $8.2 million and net proceeds from the issuance of common stock of approximately $330.7 million. These proceeds were partially offset by $7.5 million of principal payments on our $200 million Term Loan A, a $45.0 million payment (partially offset by a $10.0 million draw) on the new Revolving Credit Facility, payroll withholding taxes paid from vested restricted stock traded for taxes of $17.4 million and payments made on financing lease obligations of $1.4 million. Net cash used in financing activities was $30.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2023, which included $5.0 million of principal payments on our $200 million Term Loan A, a $94.0 million payment (partially offset by a $69.0 million draw) on the new Revolving Credit Facility, and a $2.0 million payment to settle debt acquired related to the STS acquisition, payroll withholding taxes paid from vested restricted stock traded for taxes of $3.7 million and payments made on financing lease obligations of $1.5 million. These uses were partially offset by employee stock purchase plan receipts of $6.5 million.
Previous wording
On February 18, 2022, the Company completed the refinancing of its then-outstanding $90 million revolving credit facility and Senior Secured Notes, with the 2022 Credit Facility. The Company incurred debt issuance costs of $3.3 million associated with the 2022 Credit Facility. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company made $5.0 million of principal payments on Term Loan A. As of December 31, 2023, the Company has net borrowings of approximately $35.0 million outstanding on the new Revolving Credit Facility, with $165.0 million remaining in borrowing capacity, less approximately $10.2 million of letters of credit outstanding.
Current wording
On February 18, 2022, the Company completed the refinancing of its then-outstanding $90 million revolving credit facility and Senior Secured Notes, with the 2022 Credit Facility. The Company incurred debt issuance costs of $3.3 million associated with the 2022 Credit Facility. During the year ended December 29, 2024, the Company made $7.5 million of principal payments on Term Loan A. As of December 29, 2024, the Company has no net borrowings outstanding on the new Revolving Credit Facility, with $200.0 million remaining in borrowing capacity, less approximately $9.6 million of letters of credit outstanding.
Previous wording
Mandatory amortization on the Term Loan A is 2.5% in each of the first and second years and 5.0% in each of the third, fourth and fifth years, with the remaining outstanding balance due at maturity. The Credit Agreement contains certain covenants, which include, but are not limited to, restrictions on indebtedness, liens, fundamental changes, restricted payments, asset sales, and investments, and places limits on various other payments. The Company was in compliance with the covenants contained in the Credit Agreement as of December 31, 2023.
Current wording
Mandatory amortization on the Term Loan A is 2.5% in each of the first and second years and 5.0% in each of the third, fourth and fifth years, with the remaining outstanding balance due at maturity.
Previous wording
As of December 31, 2023, we have $10.2 million of standby letters of credit outstanding. Our letters of credit are primarily related to milestone payments received from foreign customers for which the customer has not yet received the product. Information regarding our debt payments and lease agreements can be found in Notes 5 and 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements contained in this Annual Report. Additional information regarding our financial commitments is provided in the Note 15 to Consolidated Financial Statements contained in this Annual Report.
Current wording
As of December 29, 2024, we have $9.6 million of standby letters of credit outstanding. Our letters of credit are primarily related to milestone payments received from foreign customers for which the customer has not yet received the product. Information regarding our debt payments and lease agreements can be found in Notes 5 and 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements contained in this Annual Report. Additional information regarding our financial commitments is provided in the Note 14 to Consolidated Financial Statements contained in this Annual Report.
Previous wording
The carrying value of goodwill of the US and KGS reportable segments, was $125.0 million and $444.1 million, respectively, at December 31, 2023.
Current wording
The carrying value of goodwill of the US and KGS reportable segments, was $124.8 million and $444.1 million, respectively, at December 29, 2024.
Previous wording
In determining the fair value of our reporting units, there are key assumptions related to our future operating performance and revenue growth. If the actual operating performance and financial results are not consistent with our assumptions, an impairment in our $569.1 million goodwill and $62.4 million long-lived intangibles could occur in future periods. In particular, the US reporting unit fair value includes assumptions that the development of the high performance UCAS product is successful and we are awarded future contracts for new tactical unmanned aircraft systems. Additionally, the US reporting unit fair value assumes that the U.S. Navy will continue to award full rate production contracts for the Sub-Sonic Aerial Target. Additional risks for goodwill across all reporting units include, but are not limited to, the risks discussed in Item 1A “Risk Factors” contained within this Annual Report and:
Current wording
In determining the fair value of our reporting units, there are key assumptions related to our future operating performance and revenue growth. If the actual operating performance and financial results are not consistent with our assumptions, an impairment in our $568.9 million goodwill and $53.8 million long-lived intangibles could occur in future periods. In particular, the US reporting unit fair value includes assumptions that the development of the high performance UCAS product is successful and we are awarded future contracts for new tactical unmanned aircraft systems. Additionally, the US reporting unit fair value assumes that the U.S. Navy will continue to award full rate production contracts for the Sub-Sonic Aerial Target. Additional risks for goodwill across all reporting units include, but are not limited to, the risks discussed in Item 1A “Risk Factors” contained within this Annual Report and:
Previous wording
•market and political factors that could impact the success of new products, especially related to new unmanned systems platforms;
Current wording
•market and political factors that could impact the success of new products, especially related to new unmanned systems platforms; and
Previous wording
Significant management judgment is required in determining our provision for income taxes, our deferred tax assets and liabilities, tax contingencies, unrecognized tax benefits, and any required valuation allowance, including taking into consideration the probability of the tax contingencies being incurred. Management assesses this probability based upon information provided to us by our tax advisers, our legal advisers and similar tax cases. If at a later time our assessment of the probability of these tax contingencies changes, our accrual for such tax uncertainties may increase or decrease. During the fourth quarter of 2020, the Company released a significant portion of the valuation allowance. For further discussion see Note 8 “Income Taxes” in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report.
Current wording
Significant management judgment is required in determining our provision for income taxes, our deferred tax assets and liabilities, tax contingencies, unrecognized tax benefits, and any required valuation allowance, including taking into consideration the probability of the tax contingencies being incurred. Management assesses this probability based upon information provided to us by our tax advisers, our legal advisers and similar tax cases. If at a later time our assessment of the probability of these tax contingencies changes, our accrual for such tax uncertainties may increase or decrease. For further discussion see Note 8 “Income Taxes” in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in this Annual Report.
Rearranged current paragraphs (1)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (1)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
•continued impact to our businesses and the industry resulting from COVID-19; and