** Defense contractor RTX RTX.N on Tuesday lifted its 2026 profit and revenue forecasts, betting on sustained aftermarket sales and growing demand for its missile systems and other weapons amid rising geopolitical tensions

RAYTHEON BUSINESS TO DRIVE UPSIDE

** TD Cowen ("buy," PT: $225) notes despite investor concerns around Pratt & Whitney and Collins Aerospace segments' commercial aftermarket demand due to war-led oil spikes, Raytheon margin upside to act as "sufficient cushion to mitigate this risk"

** BofA Global Research ("buy," PT: $230) says, "while global conflicts are driving a need for near-term replenishment, we anticipate enduring demand through the end of the decade just to refill stockpiles for the US and allies"

** Morgan Stanley ("overweight," PT: $220) sees risks to commercial aftermarket demand as timing-related rather than structural; adds "RTX is well positioned for continued growth and margin expansion"

** RBC Capital Markets ("outperform," PT: $230) says execution on the GTF recovery to remain a key focus with co re-affirming its fleet management plans; adds Raytheon upside remains catalyst