** Shares in Leonardo LDOF.MI rise around 3% in a positive aerospace and defence sector .SXPARO after reporting a 33% rise in first-quarter core earnings (EBITA)

** JP Morgan sees EBITA for the quarter 10% above consensus, and expects IDV acquisition to drive higher FY26 forecasts

** "The other issue for investors to consider today is the proposed change of CEO by the Italian government," JP Morgan adds, saying current head Cingolani has done a "very good job" and reassurance about continued strategy is needed

** Excluding IDV contribution, Leonardo confirmed its 2026 guidance for revenue of 21 billion euros ($24.6 billion) and EBITA of 2.03 billions

** Including today's rise, its stock has gained 13.06 % YTD - per LSEG data​

($1 = 0.8524 euros)