Document
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
______________________________________ 
FORM 10-Q
______________________________________ 
x
 
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Quarterly Period Ended September 30, 2016
or
o
 
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission File Number 1-16411
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
DELAWARE
 
80-0640649
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
 
 
 
2980 Fairview Park Drive,
Falls Church, Virginia
 
22042
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)
(703) 280-2900
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes x
 
No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Yes x
 
No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act:
Large accelerated filer x
 
Accelerated filer o
 
 
 
Non-accelerated filer o (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
 Smaller reporting company o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes o
 
No x
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.
As of October 21, 2016, 176,261,947 shares of common stock were outstanding.

Table of Contents

NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 
 
Page
 
 
Item 1.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
6. Investigations, Claims and Litigation
 
 
 
 
Item 2.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 3.
Item 4.
 
 
 
 
 
Item 1.
Item 1A.
Item 2.
Item 3.
Item 4.
Item 5.
Item 6.
 

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Table of Contents

NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.    Financial Statements
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(Unaudited)
 
Three Months Ended September 30
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
$ in millions, except per share amounts
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Product
$
3,721

 
$
3,615

 
$
10,759

 
$
10,553

Service
2,434

 
2,364

 
7,352

 
7,279

Total sales
6,155

 
5,979

 
18,111

 
17,832

Operating costs and expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Product
2,760

 
2,633

 
7,992

 
7,743

Service
1,907

 
1,889

 
5,819

 
5,763

General and administrative expenses
662

 
663

 
1,938

 
1,939

Operating income
826

 
794

 
2,362

 
2,387

Other (expense) income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense
(74
)
 
(75
)
 
(224
)
 
(226
)
Other, net
17

 
10

 
37

 
8

Earnings before income taxes
769

 
729

 
2,175

 
2,169

Federal and foreign income tax expense
167

 
213

 
500

 
638

Net earnings
$
602

 
$
516

 
$
1,675

 
$
1,531

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic earnings per share
$
3.38

 
$
2.78

 
$
9.32

 
$
7.98

Weighted-average common shares outstanding, in millions
178.1

 
185.8

 
179.8

 
191.8

Diluted earnings per share
$
3.35

 
$
2.75

 
$
9.23

 
$
7.89

Weighted-average diluted shares outstanding, in millions
179.6

 
187.9

 
181.5

 
194.0

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net earnings (from above)
$
602

 
$
516

 
$
1,675

 
$
1,531

Other comprehensive income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Change in unamortized benefit plan costs, net of tax
101

 
96

 
302

 
288

Change in cumulative translation adjustment
(6
)
 
(15
)
 
(19
)
 
(31
)
Other, net
(1
)
 
1

 
(1
)
 
—

Other comprehensive income, net of tax
94

 
82

 
282

 
257

Comprehensive income
$
696

 
$
598

 
$
1,957

 
$
1,788

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

-1-
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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
(Unaudited)
$ in millions
September 30,
2016
 
December 31,
2015
Assets
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
1,103

 
$
2,319

Accounts receivable, net
3,659

 
2,841

Inventoried costs, net
797

 
807

Prepaid expenses and other current assets
212

 
367

Total current assets
5,771

 
6,334

Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $4,945 in 2016 and $4,849 in 2015
3,334

 
3,064

Goodwill
12,464

 
12,460

Deferred tax assets
1,239

 
1,409

Other non-current assets
1,292

 
1,157

Total assets
$
24,100

 
$
24,424

 
 
 
 
Liabilities
 
 
 
Trade accounts payable
$
1,325

 
$
1,282

Accrued employee compensation
1,257

 
1,195

Advance payments and amounts in excess of costs incurred
1,306

 
1,537

Other current liabilities
1,218

 
1,443

Total current liabilities
5,106

 
5,457

Long-term debt, net of current portion
6,387

 
6,386

Pension and other post-retirement benefit plan liabilities
6,009

 
6,172

Other non-current liabilities
831

 
887

Total liabilities
18,333

 
18,902

 
 
 
 
Commitments and contingencies (Note 7)

 

 
 
 
 
Shareholders’ equity
 
 
 
Preferred stock, $1 par value; 10,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding
—

 
—

Common stock, $1 par value; 800,000,000 shares authorized; issued and outstanding: 2016—176,784,423 and 2015—181,303,083
177

 
181

Paid-in capital
—

 
—

Retained earnings
10,628

 
10,661

Accumulated other comprehensive loss
(5,038
)
 
(5,320
)
Total shareholders’ equity
5,767

 
5,522

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
$
24,100

 
$
24,424

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
$ in millions
2016
 
2015
Operating activities
 
 
 
Net earnings
$
1,675

 
$
1,531

Adjustments to reconcile to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
322

 
329

Stock-based compensation
61

 
70

Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation
—

 
(111
)
Deferred income taxes
(13
)
 
165

Changes in assets and liabilities:
 
 
 
Accounts receivable, net
(830
)
 
(463
)
Inventoried costs, net
14

 
(130
)
Prepaid expenses and other assets
(144
)
 
27

Accounts payable and other liabilities
(292
)
 
(958
)
Income taxes payable
218

 
403

Retiree benefits
318

 
(318
)
Other, net
(47
)
 
(16
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
$
1,282

 
$
529

 
 
 
 
Investing activities
 
 
 
Capital expenditures
(608
)
 
(334
)
Other, net
3

 
36

Net cash used in investing activities
(605
)
 
(298
)
 
 
 
 
Financing activities
 
 
 
Common stock repurchases
(1,149
)
 
(2,864
)
Net proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
—

 
600

Payments of long-term debt
(107
)
 
—

Cash dividends paid
(482
)
 
(458
)
Payments of employee taxes withheld from share-based awards
(152
)
 
(183
)
Other, net
(3
)
 
103

Net cash used in financing activities
(1,893
)
 
(2,802
)
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(1,216
)
 
(2,571
)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year
2,319

 
3,863

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period
$
1,103

 
$
1,292

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(Unaudited)
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
$ in millions, except per share amounts
2016
 
2015
Common stock
 
 
 
Beginning of year
$
181

 
$
199

Common stock repurchased
(6
)
 
(18
)
Shares issued for employee stock awards and options
2

 
2

End of period
177

 
183

Paid-in capital
 
 
 
Beginning of year
—

 
—

End of period
—

 
—

Retained earnings
 
 
 
Beginning of year
10,661

 
12,392

Common stock repurchased
(1,154
)
 
(2,872
)
Net earnings
1,675

 
1,531

Dividends declared
(472
)
 
(447
)
Stock compensation
(82
)
 
9

End of period
10,628

 
10,613

Accumulated other comprehensive loss
 
 
 
Beginning of year
(5,320
)
 
(5,356
)
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
282

 
257

End of period
(5,038
)
 
(5,099
)
Total shareholders’ equity
$
5,767

 
$
5,697

Cash dividends declared per share
$
2.60

 
$
2.30

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

-4-
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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)
1.    BASIS OF PRESENTATION
Principles of Consolidation and Reporting
These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Northrop Grumman Corporation and subsidiaries (herein referred to as “Northrop Grumman,” the “company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”). Material intercompany accounts, transactions and profits are eliminated in consolidation. Investments in equity securities and joint ventures where the company has significant influence, but not control, are accounted for using the equity method.
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for interim reporting. These financial statements include adjustments of a normal recurring nature considered necessary by management for a fair presentation of the company’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
The results reported in these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements are not necessarily indicative of results that may be expected for the entire year. These unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the information contained in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015 (2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K) and the Form 8-K that we filed with the SEC on April 27, 2016, which recasts the disclosures in certain portions of the 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K to reflect changes in the company’s organizational structure and reportable segments.
The quarterly information is labeled using a calendar convention; that is, first quarter is consistently labeled as ending on March 31, second quarter as ending on June 30 and third quarter as ending on September 30. It is the company’s long-standing practice to establish actual interim closing dates using a “fiscal” calendar, in which we close our books on a Friday near these quarter-end dates in order to normalize the potentially disruptive effects of quarterly closings on business processes. This practice is only used at interim periods within a reporting year.
Accounting Estimates
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP). The preparation thereof requires management to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingencies at the date of the financial statements, as well as the reported amounts of sales and expenses during the reporting period. Estimates have been prepared using the most current and best available information; however, actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
Revenue Recognition
The majority of our sales are derived from long-term contracts with the United States (U.S.) Government for the production of goods, the provision of services, or in some cases, a combination of both. In accounting for these contracts, we utilize either the cost-to-cost method or the units-of-delivery method of percentage-of-completion accounting, with cost-to-cost being the predominant method. The company estimates profit on contracts as the difference between total estimated sales and total estimated cost at completion and recognizes that profit either as costs are incurred (cost-to-cost) or as units are delivered (units-of-delivery). The company classifies sales as product or service depending upon the predominant attributes of the contract.
Net Estimate-At-Completion (EAC) Adjustments - We recognize changes in estimated contract sales, costs or profits using the cumulative catch-up method of accounting. This method recognizes, in the current period, the cumulative effect of the changes on current and prior periods as net EAC adjustments; sales and profit in future periods of contract performance are recognized as if the revised estimates had been used since contract inception. If it is determined that a loss will result from the performance of a contract, the entire amount of the estimable future loss is charged against income in the period the loss is identified. Loss provisions are first offset against costs included in unbilled accounts receivable or inventoried costs, and any remaining amounts are reflected in current liabilities.
Significant EAC adjustments on a single contract could have a material effect on the company’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial position or results of operations. When such adjustments occur, we generally disclose the nature, underlying conditions and financial impact of the adjustments. No discrete event or adjustment to an individual contract was material to the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.

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Table of Contents

NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

The following table presents the effect of aggregate net EAC adjustments:
 
Three Months Ended September 30
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
$ in millions, except per share data
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Operating Income
$
121

 
$
112

 
$
387

 
$
461

Net Earnings(1)
79

 
73

 
252

 
300

Diluted earnings per share(1)
0.44

 
0.39

 
1.39

 
1.55

(1) 
Based on statutory tax rates
Contract sales may include estimated amounts not contractually agreed to by the customer, including cost or performance incentives (such as award and incentive fees), un-priced change orders, contract claims and requests for equitable adjustment (REAs). Further, as contracts are performed, change orders can be a regular occurrence and may be un-priced until negotiated with the customer. Un-priced change orders, contract claims (including change orders unapproved as to both scope and price) and REAs are included in estimated contract sales when management believes it is probable the un-priced change order, claim and/or REA will result in additional contract revenue and the amount can be reliably estimated based on the facts and circumstances known to us at the time. During July 2016, the company entered into a contract modification with the U.S. government on an Aerospace Systems program, which resolved most of the REAs disclosed in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K. Amounts recognized related to claims and REAs as of September 30, 2016 were not material individually or in aggregate.
As of September 30, 2016, the company does not have any contract terminations in process that we anticipate will have a material effect on our unaudited condensed consolidated financial position, or our annual results of operations and/or cash flows.
Related Party Transactions
For all periods presented, the company had no material related party transactions.
Accounting Standards Updates
On March 30, 2016, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2016-09, Compensation - Stock Compensation (Topic 718): Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting. The company adopted ASU 2016-09 during the first quarter of 2016. Among other things, ASU 2016-09 requires that entities recognize excess tax benefits and deficiencies related to employee share-based payment transactions as income tax expense or benefit. ASU 2016-09 also eliminates the requirement to reclassify excess tax benefits and deficiencies from operating activities to financing activities in the statement of cash flows. As a result of adoption, the company recognized a $1 million and $85 million tax benefit during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively. Adoption also resulted in an $85 million increase in operating cash flows and a corresponding $85 million reduction in financing cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2016.
On February 25, 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). ASU 2016-02 supersedes existing lease guidance, including Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 840 - Leases. Among other things, ASU 2016-02 requires recognition of a right-of-use asset and liability for future lease payments for contracts that meet the definition of a lease. ASU 2016-02 will be effective January 1, 2019, although early adoption is permitted, and it must be applied using a modified retrospective approach. We are currently evaluating the timing of adoption as well as the effect ASU 2016-02 will have on the company’s consolidated financial position, annual results of operations and/or cash flows.
On May 28, 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. ASU 2014-09 supersedes existing revenue recognition guidance, including ASC 605-35, Revenue Recognition - Construction-Type and Production-Type Contracts. ASU 2014-09 outlines a single set of comprehensive principles for recognizing revenue under U.S. GAAP. Among other things, it requires companies to identify contractual performance obligations and determine whether revenue should be recognized at a point in time or over time. These concepts, as well as other aspects of ASU 2014-09, may change the method and/or timing of revenue recognition for certain of our contracts. We expect to adopt ASU 2014-09 in 2018 and apply it retrospectively to all periods presented. Our evaluation of the effect ASU 2014-09 will have on the company’s consolidated financial position, annual results of operations and/or cash flows is expected to be complete by the end of 2016.
Other accounting standards updates effective after September 30, 2016 are not expected to have a material effect on the company’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial position, annual results of operations and/or cash flows.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

Reclassifications
The company adopted ASU 2015-03, Interest - Imputation of Interest (Subtopic 835-30): Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs, during the first quarter of 2016. As a result, we now present capitalized debt issuance costs as a reduction in the carrying amount of long-term debt. This change resulted in a reclassification of $30 million of other non-current assets reported in our 2015 consolidated statement of financial position to long-term debt, which reduced our previously reported total assets and total liabilities as of December 31, 2015.
Shareholders’ Equity
The company records the difference between the cost of shares repurchased and their par value as well as tax withholding in excess of related stock compensation expense as a reduction of paid-in capital to the extent available and then as a reduction of retained earnings.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss are as follows:
$ in millions
September 30,
2016
 
December 31,
2015
Unamortized benefit plan costs, net of tax benefit of $3,166 as of September 30, 2016 and $3,350 as of December 31, 2015
$
(4,939
)
 
$
(5,241
)
Cumulative translation adjustment
(101
)
 
(82
)
Net unrealized gain on marketable securities and cash flow hedges, net of tax
2

 
3

Total accumulated other comprehensive loss
$
(5,038
)
 
$
(5,320
)
Unamortized benefit plan costs consist primarily of net after-tax actuarial losses totaling $5.1 billion and $5.5 billion as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively. Net actuarial gains or losses are re-determined annually or upon remeasurement events and principally arise from changes in the interest rate used to discount our benefit obligations and differences between expected and actual returns on plan assets.
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss to net earnings related to the amortization of benefit plan costs were $101 million and $302 million, net of taxes, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively, and were $96 million and $288 million, net of taxes, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015, respectively. The reclassifications represent the amortization of net actuarial losses and prior service credits for the company’s retirement benefit plans, and are included in the computation of net periodic pension cost. See Note 8 for further information.
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss to net earnings, relating to cumulative translation adjustments, marketable securities and effective cash flow hedges for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, respectively, were not material.
2.    EARNINGS PER SHARE, SHARE REPURCHASES AND DIVIDENDS ON COMMON STOCK
Basic Earnings Per Share
We calculate basic earnings per share by dividing net earnings by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during each period.
Diluted Earnings Per Share
Diluted earnings per share includes the dilutive effect of awards granted to employees under stock-based compensation plans. The dilutive effect of these securities totaled 1.5 million shares and 1.7 million shares for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, respectively. The dilutive effect of these securities totaled 2.1 million shares and 2.2 million shares for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015, respectively.
Share Repurchases
On May 15, 2013, the company’s board of directors authorized a share repurchase program of up to $4.0 billion of the company’s common stock (2013 Repurchase Program). Repurchases under the 2013 Repurchase Program commenced in September 2013 and were completed in March 2015. On December 4, 2014, the company’s board of directors authorized a new share repurchase program of up to $3.0 billion of the company’s common stock (2014 Repurchase Program). Repurchases under the 2014 Repurchase Program commenced in March 2015 and were completed in March 2016.
On September 16, 2015, the company’s board of directors authorized a new share repurchase program of up to $4.0 billion of the company’s common stock (2015 Repurchase Program). Repurchases under the 2015 Repurchase

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

Program commenced in March 2016 upon completion of the company’s 2014 Repurchase Program. As of September 30, 2016, repurchases under the 2015 Repurchase Program totaled $0.9 billion; $3.1 billion remained under this share repurchase authorization. By its terms, the 2015 Repurchase Program is set to expire when we have used all authorized funds for repurchases.
Share repurchases take place from time to time, subject to market conditions and management’s discretion, in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions. The company retires its common stock upon repurchase and, in the periods presented, has not made any purchases of common stock other than in connection with these publicly announced repurchase programs.
The table below summarizes the company’s share repurchases to date under the authorizations described above:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shares Repurchased
(in millions)
Repurchase Program
Authorization Date
 
Amount
Authorized
(in millions)
 
Total
Shares Retired
(in millions)
 
Average 
Price
Per Share(1)
 
Date Completed
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
 
2016
 
2015
May 15, 2013
 
$
4,000

 
32.8

 
$
121.97

 
March 2015
 
—

 
2.7

December 4, 2014
 
$
3,000

 
18.0

 
$
166.70

 
March 2016
 
1.4

 
15.0

September 16, 2015
 
$
4,000

 
4.2

 
$
213.46

 

 
4.2

 
—

(1) 
Includes commissions paid.
Dividends on Common Stock
In May 2016, the company increased the quarterly common stock dividend 13 percent to $0.90 per share from the previous amount of $0.80 per share.
In May 2015, the company increased the quarterly common stock dividend 14 percent to $0.80 per share from the previous amount of $0.70 per share.
3.    SEGMENT INFORMATION
The company is aligned in three operating sectors, which also comprise our reportable segments: Aerospace Systems, Mission Systems and Technology Services. Effective January 1, 2016, the company streamlined our sectors from four to three to better align our business with the evolving needs of our customers and enhance innovation across the company. Mission Systems and Technology Services were created by merging elements of our former Electronic Systems, Information Systems and Technical Services sectors. The new Mission Systems sector is composed of the majority of our former Electronic Systems sector and the businesses from our former Information Systems sector focused on the development of new capabilities for our military and intelligence customers. The new Technology Services sector was formed by combining the services portfolio in the former Information Systems sector with the former Technical Services sector. Among other operations that were realigned, the military and civil space hardware business in Azusa, California, previously reporting to the Electronic Systems sector, moved to the Aerospace Systems sector, and the electronic attack business, previously in the Aerospace Systems sector, moved to the Mission Systems sector.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

The following table presents sales and operating income by segment:
 
Three Months Ended September 30
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
$ in millions
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Aerospace Systems
$
2,782

 
$
2,544

 
$
7,956

 
$
7,540

Mission Systems
2,698

 
2,723

 
8,081

 
8,062

Technology Services
1,190

 
1,193

 
3,617

 
3,698

Intersegment eliminations
(515
)
 
(481
)
 
(1,543
)
 
(1,468
)
Total sales
6,155

 
5,979

 
18,111

 
17,832

Operating income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Aerospace Systems
311

 
298

 
909

 
929

Mission Systems
351

 
355

 
1,055

 
1,047

Technology Services
130

 
128

 
387

 
389

Intersegment eliminations
(61
)
 
(55
)
 
(188
)
 
(162
)
Total segment operating income
731


726

 
2,163

 
2,203

Reconciliation to total operating income:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net FAS/CAS pension adjustment
91

 
97

 
234

 
261

Unallocated corporate expenses
5

 
(29
)
 
(31
)
 
(76
)
Other
(1
)
 
—

 
(4
)
 
(1
)
Total operating income
$
826

 
$
794

 
$
2,362

 
$
2,387

Net FAS/CAS Pension Adjustment
For financial statement purposes, we account for our employee pension plans in accordance with GAAP under FAS (GAAP Financial Accounting Standards). However, the cost of these plans is charged to our contracts in accordance with the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and the related U.S. Government Cost Accounting Standards (CAS) that govern such plans. The net FAS/CAS pension adjustment reflects the difference between CAS pension expense included as cost in segment operating income and FAS expense determined in accordance with GAAP.
The decrease in net FAS/CAS pension adjustment for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016, as compared to the same periods in 2015, is primarily due to lower than expected asset returns during 2015, partially offset by the increase in our FAS discount rate assumption as of December 31, 2015 and the continued phase-in of the effects of CAS harmonization.
Unallocated Corporate Expenses
Unallocated corporate expenses include the portion of corporate expenses not considered allowable or allocable under applicable CAS or the FAR, and therefore not allocated to the segments. Such costs consist of a portion of management and administration, legal, environmental, compensation costs, retiree benefits and corporate unallowable costs.
Current Quarter
Unallocated corporate expenses decreased for the three months ended September 30, 2016, as compared with the same period in 2015, principally due to a $30 million benefit recognized for state tax refunds claimed on our prior year tax returns and a $25 million benefit recognized for estimated prior year overhead claim recoveries, partially offset by an increase in provisions for environmental remediation.
Year to Date
Unallocated corporate expenses decreased for the nine months ended September 30, 2016, as compared with the same period in 2015, principally due to the current quarter items discussed above. Further, unallocated corporate expenses in the prior year period were impacted by higher deferred state taxes resulting from a $500 million discretionary pension contribution made in the first quarter of 2015.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

4.    INCOME TAXES
 
Three Months Ended September 30
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
$ in millions
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Federal and foreign income tax expense
$
167

 
$
213

 
$
500

 
$
638

Effective income tax rate
21.7
%
 
29.2
%
 
23.0
%
 
29.4
%
Current Quarter
The company’s effective tax rate for the three months ended September 30, 2016 was lower than the comparable 2015 period primarily due to a $42 million benefit recognized in connection with resolution of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) examination of the company’s 2007-2011 tax returns as well as the extension of the research tax credit.
Year to Date
The company’s effective tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 was lower than the comparable 2015 period primarily due to $85 million of excess tax benefits related to employee share-based payment transactions recognized in 2016 resulting from the adoption of ASU No. 2016-09 described in Note 1 and a $42 million benefit recognized in connection with resolution of the IRS examination of the company’s 2007-2011 tax returns.
We file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and in various state and foreign jurisdictions. Our 2012-2013 federal tax returns are currently under IRS examination. The company believes it is reasonably possible that within the next twelve months we may resolve certain tax matters related to the years under examination, which may result in reductions of our unrecognized tax benefits up to $70 million and income tax expense up to $40 million.
Undistributed Foreign Earnings
As of September 30, 2016, the company has accumulated undistributed earnings generated by its foreign subsidiaries of approximately $430 million. We are currently evaluating options to repatriate a majority of these earnings due, in part, to recent changes in foreign exchange rates, which have improved the tax efficiency of any such repatriation. No provision has been made for deferred taxes on these earnings as we currently expect this potential repatriation would generate a net tax benefit resulting from foreign tax credits in excess of U.S. income taxes due on these earnings.
We intend to permanently reinvest the remaining undistributed earnings as well as future earnings from our foreign subsidiaries to fund our international operations. In addition, we expect U.S. cash generation will continue to be sufficient to meet our future U.S. cash needs.
5.    FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The following table presents comparative carrying value and fair value information for our financial assets and liabilities:
 
September 30, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
$ in millions
Carrying
Value
 
Fair
Value
 
Carrying
Value
 
Fair
Value
Financial Assets (Liabilities)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Marketable securities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Trading
$
318

 
$
318

 
$
303

 
$
303

Available-for-sale
5

 
5

 
7

 
7

Derivatives
2

 
2

 
5

 
5

Long-term debt, including current portion
$
(6,390
)
 
$
(7,337
)
 
$
(6,496
)
 
$
(6,907
)
There were no transfers of financial instruments between the three levels of the fair value hierarchy during the nine months ended September 30, 2016.
The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents approximates fair value.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

Investments in Marketable Securities
The company holds a portfolio of marketable securities consisting of securities to partially fund non-qualified employee benefit plans. These assets are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis and substantially all of these instruments are valued using Level 1 inputs. As of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, marketable securities of $323 million and $310 million, respectively, were included in other non-current assets in the unaudited condensed consolidated statements of financial position.
Derivative Financial Instruments and Hedging Activities
The company’s derivative portfolio consists primarily of foreign currency forward contracts. The notional value of the company’s derivative portfolio at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, was $126 million and $141 million, respectively. The portion of the notional value designated as cash flow hedges at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, was $2 million and $10 million, respectively. Substantially all of these instruments are valued using Level 2 inputs. Where model-derived valuations are appropriate, the company utilizes the income approach to determine the fair value and uses the applicable London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) swap rates. The derivative fair values and related unrealized gains/losses at September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015, were not material.
Long-term Debt
The fair value of long-term debt is calculated using Level 2 inputs based on interest rates available for debt with terms and maturities similar to the company’s existing debt arrangements.
Unsecured Senior Notes
In February 2015, the company issued $600 million of unsecured senior notes due April 15, 2045 with a fixed interest rate of 3.85 percent. We used the net proceeds from this offering for general corporate purposes, including the funding of a $500 million voluntary contribution to our pension plans in the first quarter of 2015 and most of a debt repayment of $107 million in the first quarter of 2016.
6.    INVESTIGATIONS, CLAIMS AND LITIGATION
Litigation
On May 4, 2012, the company commenced an action, Northrop Grumman Systems Corp. v. United States, in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims. This lawsuit relates to an approximately $875 million firm fixed price contract awarded to the company in 2007 by the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) for the construction and delivery of flats sequencing systems (FSS) as part of the postal automation program. The FSS have been delivered. The company’s lawsuit is based on various theories of liability. The complaint seeks approximately $63 million for unpaid portions of the contract price, and approximately $115 million based on the company’s assertions that, through various acts and omissions over the life of the contract, the USPS adversely affected the cost and schedule of performance and materially altered the company’s obligations under the contract. The United States responded to the company’s complaint with an answer, denying most of the company’s claims and counterclaims, seeking approximately $410 million, less certain amounts outstanding under the contract. The principal counterclaim alleges that the company delayed its performance and caused damages to the USPS because USPS did not realize certain costs savings as early as it had expected. On April 2, 2013, the U.S. Department of Justice informed the company of a False Claims Act complaint relating to the FSS contract that was filed under seal by a relator in June 2011 in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. On June 3, 2013, the United States filed a Notice informing the Court that the United States had decided not to intervene in this case. The relator alleged that the company violated the False Claims Act in a number of ways with respect to the FSS contract, alleged damage to the USPS in an amount of at least approximately $179 million annually, alleged that he was improperly discharged in retaliation, and sought an unspecified partial refund of the contract purchase price, penalties, attorney’s fees and other costs of suit. The relator later voluntarily dismissed his retaliation claim and reasserted it in a separate arbitration, which he also ultimately voluntarily dismissed. On September 5, 2014, the court granted the company’s motion for summary judgment and ordered the relator’s False Claims Act case be dismissed with prejudice. On December 19, 2014, the company filed a motion for partial summary judgment asking the court to dismiss the principal counterclaim referenced above. On June 29, 2015, the Court heard argument and denied that motion without prejudice to filing a later motion to dismiss. Although the ultimate outcome of these matters (“the FSS matters,” collectively), including any possible loss, cannot be predicted or estimated at this time, the company intends vigorously to pursue and defend the FSS matters.
On August 8, 2013, the company received a court-appointed expert’s report in litigation pending in the Second Federal Court of the Federal District in Brazil brought by the Brazilian Post and Telegraph Corporation (ECT), a Brazilian state-owned entity, against Solystic SAS (Solystic), a French subsidiary of the company, and two of its consortium partners. In this suit, commenced on December 17, 2004, and relatively inactive for some period of time,

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

ECT alleges the consortium breached its contract with ECT and seeks damages of approximately R$111 million (the equivalent of approximately $34 million as of September 30, 2016), plus interest, inflation adjustments and attorneys’ fees, as authorized by Brazilian law, which amounts could be significant over time. The original suit sought R$89 million (the equivalent of approximately $28 million as of September 30, 2016) in damages. In October 2013, ECT asserted an additional damage claim of R$22 million (the equivalent of approximately $7 million as of September 30, 2016). In its counterclaim, Solystic alleges ECT breached the contract by wrongfully refusing to accept the equipment Solystic had designed and built and seeks damages of approximately €31 million (the equivalent of approximately $35 million as of September 30, 2016), plus interest, inflation adjustments and attorneys’ fees, as authorized by Brazilian law. The Brazilian court retained an expert to consider certain issues pending before it. On August 8, 2013 and September 10, 2014, the company received reports from the expert, which contain some recommended findings relating to liability and the damages calculations put forth by ECT. Some of the expert’s recommended findings were favorable to the company and others were favorable to ECT. In November 2014, the parties submitted comments on the expert’s most recent report. On June 16, 2015, the court published a decision denying the parties’ request to present oral testimony. At some future point, the court is expected to issue a decision on the parties’ claims and counterclaims that could accept or reject, in whole or in part, the expert’s recommended findings.
The company is one of several defendants in litigation brought by the Orange County Water District in Orange County Superior Court in California on December 17, 2004, for alleged contribution to volatile organic chemical contamination of the County’s shallow groundwater. The lawsuit includes counts against the defendants for violation of the Orange County Water District Act, the California Super Fund Act, negligence, nuisance, trespass and declaratory relief. Among other things, the lawsuit seeks unspecified damages for the cost of remediation, payment of attorney fees and costs, and punitive damages. Trial on the statutory claims (those based on the Orange County Water District Act, the California Super Fund Act and declaratory relief) concluded on September 25, 2012. On October 29, 2013, the court issued its decision in favor of the defendants on the statutory claims. On May 9, 2014, the court granted defendants’ dispositive motions on the remaining tort causes of action. Notice of entry of judgment was filed on July 1, 2014. The Orange County Water District filed a notice of appeal on August 28, 2014. The parties have submitted their briefs to the court.
The company is a party to various investigations, lawsuits, claims and other legal proceedings, including government investigations and claims, that arise in the ordinary course of our business. The nature of legal proceedings is such that we cannot assure the outcome of any particular matter. However, based on information available to the company to date, and other than with respect to the FSS matters discussed separately above, the company does not believe that the outcome of any matter pending against the company is likely to have a material adverse effect on the company’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial position as of September 30, 2016, or its annual results of operations or cash flows.
7.    COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Guarantees of Certain Performance Obligations
The company’s subsidiaries enter into joint ventures, teaming and other business arrangements (collectively, Business Arrangements) to support our products and services. The company generally strives to limit its exposure under these arrangements to its subsidiary’s investment in the Business Arrangements or to the extent of such subsidiary’s obligations under the applicable contract. In some cases, however, the company may be required to guarantee performance by the Business Arrangements and, in such cases, the company generally strives to obtain cross-indemnification from the other members of the Business Arrangements.
At September 30, 2016, the company is not aware of any existing event of default that would require it to satisfy any of these guarantees.
U.S. Government Cost Claims
From time to time, the company is advised of claims by the U.S. Government concerning certain potential disallowed costs, plus, at times, penalties and interest. When such findings are presented, the company and the U.S. Government representatives engage in discussions to enable the company to evaluate the merits of these claims, as well as to assess the amounts being claimed. Where appropriate, provisions are made to reflect the company’s estimated exposure for matters raised by the U.S. Government. Such provisions are reviewed periodically using the most recent information available. The company believes it has adequately reserved for disputed amounts that are probable and estimable, and the outcome of any such matters would not have a material adverse effect on its unaudited condensed consolidated financial position as of September 30, 2016, or its annual results of operations and/or cash flows.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

Environmental Matters
The table below summarizes management’s estimate of the range of reasonably possible future costs for environmental remediation, the amount accrued within that range, and the deferred costs expected to be recoverable through overhead charges on U.S. Government contracts as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:
$ in millions
 
Range of Reasonably Possible Future Costs(1)
 
Accrued Costs(2)
 
Deferred Costs(3)
September 30, 2016
 
$389 - $796
 
$
394

 
$
196

December 31, 2015
 
353 - 812
 
370

 
186

(1) 
The range of reasonably possible future costs does not take into consideration amounts expected to be recoverable through overhead charges on U.S. Government contracts.
(2) As of September 30, 2016, $115 million is recorded in other current liabilities and $279 million is recorded in other non-current liabilities.
(3) As of September 30, 2016, $63 million is deferred in inventoried costs and $133 million is deferred in other non-current assets. These amounts are evaluated for recoverability on a routine basis.
Although management cannot predict whether new information gained as our environmental remediation projects progress, or as changes in facts and circumstances occur, will materially affect the estimated liability accrued, we do not anticipate future remediation expenditures associated with our currently identified projects will have a material adverse effect on the company’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial position as of September 30, 2016, or its annual results of operations and/or cash flows.
Financial Arrangements
In the ordinary course of business, the company uses standby letters of credit and guarantees issued by commercial banks and surety bonds issued principally by insurance companies to guarantee the performance on certain obligations. At September 30, 2016, there were $286 million of stand-by letters of credit and guarantees and $170 million of surety bonds outstanding.
Indemnifications
The company has retained certain environmental, income tax and other potential liabilities in connection with certain of its divestitures. The settlement of these liabilities is not expected to have a material adverse effect on the company’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial position as of September 30, 2016, or its annual results of operations and/or cash flows.
Operating Leases
Rental expense for operating leases for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2016 was $69 million and $228 million, respectively, and was $75 million and $232 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2015, respectively. These amounts are net of immaterial amounts of sublease rental income.
Credit Facility
The company maintains an unsecured credit facility in an aggregate principal amount of $1.6 billion (the “Credit Agreement”) that matures in July 2020. At September 30, 2016, the company was in compliance with the covenants under the Credit Agreement and there was no balance outstanding.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

8.    RETIREMENT BENEFITS
The cost to the company of its retirement plans is shown in the following table:
 
Three Months Ended September 30
Nine Months Ended September 30
 
Pension
Benefits
 
Medical and
Life Benefits
Pension
Benefits
 
Medical and
Life Benefits
$ in millions
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Components of net periodic benefit cost
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service cost
$
112

 
$
121

 
$
8

 
$
8

$
335

 
$
363

 
$
23

 
$
26

Interest cost
321

 
306

 
24

 
24

963

 
918

 
71

 
71

Expected return on plan assets
(464
)
 
(494
)
 
(21
)
 
(22
)
(1,390
)
 
(1,481
)
 
(64
)
 
(67
)
Amortization of:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prior service credit
(15
)
 
(15
)
 
(6
)
 
(7
)
(45
)
 
(45
)
 
(17
)
 
(21
)
Net loss from previous years
179

 
170

 
3

 
6

536

 
511

 
11

 
20

Net periodic benefit cost
$
133

 
$
88

 
$
8

 
$
9

$
399

 
$
266

 
$
24

 
$
29

Employer Contributions
The company sponsors defined benefit pension and post-retirement plans, as well as defined contribution plans. We fund our defined benefit pension plans annually in a manner consistent with the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended by the Pension Protection Act of 2006. Additionally, in the first quarter of 2015, we made a voluntary pension contribution of $500 million.
Contributions made by the company to its retirement plans are as follows:
 
Three Months Ended September 30
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
$ in millions
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Defined benefit pension plans
$
14

 
$
20

 
$
61

 
$
564

Medical and life benefit plans
17

 
19

 
46

 
44

Defined contribution plans
83

 
77

 
241

 
227

9.    STOCK COMPENSATION PLANS AND OTHER COMPENSATION ARRANGEMENTS
Stock Awards
The following table presents the number of restricted stock rights (RSRs) and restricted performance stock rights (RPSRs) granted to employees under the company's long-term incentive stock plan and the grant date aggregate fair value of those stock awards for the periods presented:
 
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
in millions
 
2016
2015
RSRs granted
 
0.2

0.2

RPSRs granted
 
0.3

0.4

Grant date aggregate fair value
 
$
88

$
89

RSRs typically vest on the third anniversary of the grant date, while RPSRs generally vest and pay out based on the achievement of financial metrics for the three-year period beginning January 1 of the year of grant.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

Cash Awards
The following table presents the minimum and maximum aggregate payout amounts related to cash units (CUs) and cash performance units (CPUs) granted to employees in the periods presented:
 
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
$ in millions
 
2016
2015
Minimum aggregate payout amount
 
$
35

$
36

Maximum aggregate payout amount
 
194

192

CUs typically vest and settle in cash on the third anniversary of the grant date, while CPUs generally vest and pay out in cash based on the achievement of financial metrics for a three-year period beginning January 1 of the year of grant.

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REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
Northrop Grumman Corporation
Falls Church, Virginia
We have reviewed the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of financial position of Northrop Grumman Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of September 30, 2016, and the related condensed consolidated statements of earnings and comprehensive income for the three-month and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015, and of cash flows and changes in shareholders’ equity for the nine-month periods ended September 30, 2016 and 2015. These interim financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management.
We conducted our reviews in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). A review of interim financial information consists principally of applying analytical procedures and making inquiries of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters. It is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion.
Based on our reviews, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to such condensed consolidated interim financial statements for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have previously audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated statement of financial position of Northrop Grumman Corporation and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2015, and the related consolidated statements of earnings and comprehensive income (loss), cash flows, and changes in shareholders’ equity for the year then ended (not presented herein); and in our report dated February 1, 2016 (April 26, 2016 as to the reclassification of segment information), we expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements. In our opinion, the information set forth in the accompanying condensed consolidated statement of financial position as of December 31, 2015, is fairly stated, in all material respects, in relation to the consolidated statement of financial position from which it has been derived.

/s/  Deloitte & Touche LLP
McLean, Virginia
October 25, 2016


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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

Item 2.    Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
OVERVIEW
Northrop Grumman Corporation (herein referred to as “Northrop Grumman,” the “company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) is a leading global security company. We offer a broad portfolio of capabilities and technologies that enable us to deliver innovative products, systems and solutions for applications that range from undersea to outer space and cyberspace. We provide products, systems and solutions in autonomous systems; cyber; command, control, communications and computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C4ISR); strike; and logistics and modernization. We participate in many high-priority defense and government programs in the United States (U.S.) and abroad. We conduct most of our business with the U.S. Government, principally the Department of Defense (DoD) and intelligence community. We also conduct business with foreign, state and local governments and commercial customers.
The following discussion should be read along with the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements included in this Form 10-Q, as well as our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K and the Form 8-K that we filed with the SEC on April 27, 2016, which recasts the disclosures in certain portions of the 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K to reflect changes in the company’s organizational structure and reportable segments. See further discussions in the Consolidated Operating Results and Segment Operating Results sections that follow.
Political and Economic Environment
The following is an update of events relating to the company’s political and economic environment since the filing of our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
On February 9, 2016, the President delivered his FY 2017 budget to Congress. The FY 2017 budget reflects the FY 2017 spending caps established in the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015 and requests $524 billion for the DoD’s annual budget and an additional $59 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations. Congress is continuing to consider authorization and appropriations bills for FY 2017.
On September 28, 2016 the President signed a continuing resolution which funds the government at FY 2016 levels
until December 9, 2016. It is unclear when or if annual appropriations bills will be enacted for FY 2017. The U.S. Government may operate under a continuing resolution for some or all of FY 2017, restricting new contract or program starts for that year and placing limitations on some planned program budgets, and we may face a government shutdown of unknown duration.
Operating Performance Assessment and Reporting
We manage and assess our business based on our performance on contracts and programs (typically two or more closely-related contracts). We recognize sales from our portfolio of long-term contracts primarily using the cost-to-cost method of percentage of completion accounting, but in some cases we utilize the units-of-delivery method of percentage of completion accounting. As a result, sales tend to fluctuate in concert with costs incurred across our large portfolio of contracts. Due to Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) rules that govern our U.S. Government business and related Cost Accounting Standards (CAS), most types of costs are allocable to U.S. Government contracts. As such, we do not focus on individual cost groupings (such as manufacturing, engineering and design labor costs, subcontractor costs, material costs, overhead costs and general and administrative (G&A) costs), as much as we do on total contract cost, which is the key driver of our sales and operating income.
In evaluating our operating performance, we look primarily at changes in sales and operating income, including the effects of meaningful changes in operating income as a result of changes in contract estimates. Where applicable, significant fluctuations in operating performance attributable to individual contracts or programs, or changes in a specific cost element across multiple contracts, are described in our analysis. Based on this approach and the nature of our operations, the discussion below of results of operations first focuses on our three segments before distinguishing between products and services. Changes in sales are generally described in terms of volume, deliveries or other indicators of sales activity, and contract mix. For purposes of this discussion, volume generally refers to increases or decreases in sales or cost from production/service activity levels or delivery rates. Performance generally refers to non-volume related changes in profitability.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

CONSOLIDATED OPERATING RESULTS
Selected financial highlights are presented in the table below:
 
Three Months Ended September 30
 
%
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
 
%
$ in millions, except per share amounts
2016
 
2015
 
Change
 
2016
 
2015
 
Change
Sales
$
6,155

 
$
5,979

 
3
 %
 
$
18,111

 
$
17,832

 
2
 %
Operating costs and expenses
5,329

 
5,185

 
3
 %
 
15,749

 
15,445

 
2
 %
Operating income
826

 
794

 
4
 %
 
2,362

 
2,387

 
(1
)%
Operating margin rate
13.4
%
 
13.3
%
 
 
 
13.0
%
 
13.4
%
 
 
Federal and foreign income tax expense
167

 
213

 
(22
)%
 
500

 
638

 
(22
)%
Effective income tax rate
21.7
%
 
29.2
%
 
 
 
23.0
%
 
29.4
%
 
 
Net earnings
602

 
516

 
17
 %
 
1,675

 
1,531

 
9
 %
Diluted earnings per share
3.35

 
2.75

 
22
 %
 
9.23

 
7.89

 
17
 %
Net cash provided by operating activities
$
738

 
$
557

 
32
 %
 
$
1,282

 
$
529

 
142
 %
Sales
Current Quarter
Sales for the three months ended September 30, 2016 increased $176 million, or 3 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015, primarily due to higher sales of $238 million, or 9 percent, at Aerospace Systems, partially offset by lower sales of $25 million, or 1 percent, at Mission Systems.
Year to Date
Sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 increased $279 million, or 2 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015, primarily due to higher sales of $416 million, or 6 percent, at Aerospace Systems, partially offset by lower sales of $81 million, or 2 percent, at Technology Services.
See Segment Operating Results below for further information by segment and the Product and Service Analysis section that follows Segment Operating Results for product and service detail.
Operating Costs and Expenses
Operating costs and expenses primarily comprise labor, material, subcontractor and overhead costs, and are generally allocated to contracts as incurred. In accordance with industry practice and the regulations that govern cost accounting requirements for government contracts, most general management and corporate expenses incurred at the segment and corporate locations are considered allowable and allocable costs. Allowable and allocable G&A costs, including independent research and development (IR&D) and bid and proposal costs, are allocated on a systematic basis to contracts in progress.
Operating costs and expenses comprise the following:
 
Three Months Ended September 30
 
%
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
 
%
$ in millions
2016
 
2015
 
 Change
 
2016
 
2015
 
 Change
Product costs
$
2,760

 
$
2,633

 
5
 %
 
$
7,992

 
$
7,743

 
3
 %
Service costs
1,907

 
1,889

 
1
 %
 
5,819

 
5,763

 
1
 %
G&A expenses
662

 
663

 
—
 %
 
1,938

 
1,939

 
—
 %
Operating costs and expenses
$
5,329

 
$
5,185

 
3
 %
 
$
15,749

 
$
15,445

 
2
 %
Operating costs and expenses as a % of sales
86.6
%
 
86.7
%
 
 
 
87.0
%
 
86.6
%
 
 
Current Quarter
Operating costs and expenses as a percentage of sales decreased for the three months ended September 30, 2016 as compared with the same period in 2015, which increased our operating margin rate to 13.4 percent from 13.3 percent in the prior year period. The reduction in operating costs and expenses as a percentage of sales was principally driven by a $34 million reduction in unallocated corporate expenses, as described in Note 3 to the

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1, partially offset by lower segment margin rates, as described in the Segment Operating Results section below.
G&A as a percentage of sales for the three months ended September 30, 2016 decreased to 10.8 percent from 11.1 percent in the prior year period, principally due to higher sales volume.
Year to Date
Operating costs and expenses as a percentage of sales increased for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 as compared with the same period in 2015, which reduced our operating margin rate to 13.0 percent from 13.4 percent in the prior year period. The increase in operating costs and expenses as a percentage of sales was principally driven by lower segment margin rates, as described in the Segment Operating Results section below, and a $27 million decrease in our net FAS (GAAP Financial Accounting Standards)/CAS pension adjustment, partially offset by a $45 million reduction in unallocated corporate expenses, as described in Note 3 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1.
G&A as a percentage of sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 decreased to 10.7 percent from 10.9 percent in prior year period, principally due to higher sales volume.
For further information regarding product and service sales and costs, see the Product and Service Analysis section that follows Segment Operating Results.
Operating Income and Margin Rate
We define operating income as sales less operating costs and expenses, which includes G&A. Operating margin rate is defined as operating income as a percentage of sales.
Current Quarter
Operating income for the three months ended September 30, 2016 increased $32 million, or 4 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015 principally due to a $34 million reduction in unallocated corporate expenses and higher sales volume, partially offset by lower segment margin rates. Operating margin rate increased to 13.4 percent from 13.3 percent in the prior year period primarily due to the reduction in unallocated corporate expenses, partially offset by lower segment margin rates.
Year to Date
Operating income for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 decreased $25 million, or 1 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015 principally due to lower segment margin rates and a $27 million reduction in our net FAS/CAS pension adjustment, which together more than offset a $45 million reduction in unallocated corporate expenses and higher sales volume. Operating margin rate decreased to 13.0 percent from 13.4 percent in the prior year period primarily due to lower segment margin rates and net FAS/CAS pension adjustment, partially offset by the noted reduction in unallocated corporate expenses.
Federal and Foreign Income Taxes
Current Quarter
The company’s effective tax rate for the three months ended September 30, 2016 was 21.7 percent as compared with 29.2 percent in the comparable 2015 period. The lower rate is principally due to a $42 million benefit recognized in connection with resolution of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) examination of the company’s 2007-2011 tax returns as well as the extension of the research tax credit.
Year to Date
The company’s effective tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 was 23.0 percent as compared with 29.4 percent in the comparable 2015 period. The lower rate is principally due to $85 million of excess tax benefits related to employee share-based payment transactions recognized in 2016 resulting from the adoption of ASU No. 2016-09, as described in Note 1 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item1, and a $42 million benefit recognized in connection with resolution of the IRS examination of the company’s 2007-2011 tax returns.
Net Earnings
Current Quarter
Net earnings for the three months ended September 30, 2016 increased $86 million, or 17 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015, principally due to the lower effective tax rate and higher operating income discussed above.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

Year to Date
Net earnings for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 increased $144 million, or 9 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015, principally due to the lower effective tax rate discussed above and an increase in Other, net as a result of higher returns on marketable securities.
Diluted Earnings Per Share
Current Quarter
Diluted earnings per share for the three months ended September 30, 2016 increased $0.60, or 22 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015, reflecting higher net earnings and lower weighted-average shares outstanding resulting from shares repurchased during 2015 and 2016.
Year to Date
Diluted earnings per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 increased $1.34, or 17 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015, reflecting higher net earnings and lower weighted-average shares outstanding resulting from shares repurchased during 2015 and 2016.
Net Cash from Operating Activities
See “Operating Cash Flow” in the Liquidity and Capital Resources section below for further information on net cash provided by operating activities.
SEGMENT OPERATING RESULTS
Basis of Presentation
At September 30, 2016, the company was aligned in three operating sectors, which also comprise our reportable segments: Aerospace Systems, Mission Systems, and Technology Services. Effective January 1, 2016, the company streamlined our sectors from four to three as described in Note 3 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1.
Our sectors provide products and services in the following business areas, which are presented in a manner reflecting core capabilities:
Aerospace Systems
 
Mission Systems
 
Technology Services
Autonomous Systems
 
Sensors and Processing
 
Global Logistics and Modernization
Manned Aircraft
 
Cyber and ISR
 
Advanced Defense Services
Space
 
Advanced Capabilities
 
System Modernization and Services
This section discusses segment sales, operating income and operating margin rates. Reconciliations of segment sales to total sales and of segment operating income to total operating income, as well as a discussion of the reconciling items, are provided in Note 3 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1.
Segment Operating Income and Margin Rate
Segment operating income, as reconciled in the Reconciliation of Segment Operating Income to Total Operating Income table below, is a non-GAAP measure that reflects total earnings from our three segments including allocated pension expense recognized under CAS, and excludes unallocated corporate items and FAS pension expense. We believe this measure may be useful to investors and other users of our financial statements as a supplemental measure in evaluating the financial performance and operational trends of our sectors.
 
Three Months Ended September 30
 
%
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
 
%
$ in millions
2016
 
2015
 
Change
 
2016
 
2015
 
Change
Segment operating income
$
731

 
$
726

 
1
%
 
$
2,163

 
$
2,203

 
(2
)%
Segment operating margin rate
11.9
%
 
12.1
%
 
 
 
11.9
%
 
12.4
%
 
 
Current Quarter
Segment operating income for the three months ended September 30, 2016 increased $5 million, or 1 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015 as a result of higher sales volume, which more than offset lower segment margin rates. Segment operating margin rate decreased to 11.9 percent from 12.1 percent in the prior year period principally due to a lower segment margin rate at Aerospace Systems.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

Year to Date
Segment operating income for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 decreased $40 million, or 2 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015 as a result of lower segment margin rates, which more than offset higher sales volume. Segment operating margin rate decreased to 11.9 percent from 12.4 percent in the prior year period principally due to a lower segment margin rate at Aerospace Systems.
Net EAC Adjustments - We record changes in estimated contract earnings at completion (net EAC adjustments) using the cumulative catch-up method of accounting. Net EAC adjustments can have a significant effect on reported sales and operating income and the aggregate amounts are presented in the table below:
 
Three Months Ended September 30
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
$ in millions
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Favorable EAC adjustments
$
196

 
$
189

 
$
595

 
$
707

Unfavorable EAC adjustments
(75
)
 
(77
)
 
(208
)
 
(246
)
Net EAC adjustments
$
121

 
$
112

 
$
387

 
$
461

Net EAC adjustments by segment are presented in the table below:
 
Three Months Ended September 30
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
$ in millions
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Aerospace Systems
$
76

 
$
62

 
$
218

 
$
282

Mission Systems
36

 
36

 
136

 
135

Technology Services
16

 
16

 
53

 
55

Eliminations
(7
)
 
(2
)
 
(20
)
 
(11
)
Net EAC adjustments
$
121

 
$
112

 
$
387

 
$
461

Reconciliation of Segment Operating Income to Total Operating Income - The table below reconciles segment operating income to total operating income by including the impact of net FAS/CAS pension adjustments, as well as unallocated corporate expenses (certain corporate-level expenses, which are not considered allowable or allocable under applicable CAS or the FAR). See Note 3 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 for further information on the net FAS/CAS pension adjustment and unallocated corporate expenses.
 
Three Months Ended September 30
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
$ in millions
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Segment operating income
$
731

 
$
726

 
$
2,163

 
$
2,203

CAS pension expense
224

 
185

 
633

 
527

Less: FAS pension expense
(133
)
 
(88
)
 
(399
)
 
(266
)
Net FAS/CAS pension adjustment
91

 
97

 
234

 
261

Unallocated corporate expenses
5

 
(29
)
 
(31
)
 
(76
)
Other
(1
)
 
—

 
(4
)
 
(1
)
Total operating income
$
826

 
$
794

 
$
2,362

 
$
2,387

For purposes of the discussion in the remainder of this Segment Operating Results section, references to operating income and operating margin rate reflect segment operating income and segment operating margin rate.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

AEROSPACE SYSTEMS
 
Three Months Ended September 30
 
%
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
 
%
$ in millions
2016
 
2015
 
Change
 
2016
 
2015
 
Change
Sales
$
2,782

 
$
2,544

 
9
%
 
$
7,956

 
$
7,540

 
6
 %
Operating income
311

 
298

 
4
%
 
909

 
929

 
(2
)%
Operating margin rate
11.2
%
 
11.7
%
 
 
 
11.4
%
 
12.3
%
 
 
Current Quarter
Aerospace Systems sales for the three months ended September 30, 2016 increased $238 million, or 9 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015. The increase was due to higher volume on Manned Aircraft and Autonomous Systems programs, partially offset by lower volume on Space programs. Manned Aircraft sales increased primarily due to higher restricted volume, increased F-35 deliveries and the transition to full rate production on the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye program, partially offset by fewer F/A-18 deliveries. Autonomous Systems sales increased primarily due to higher volume on the Triton and Global Hawk programs, partially offset by the ramp-down of the NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance (AGS) program. Space sales declined principally due to lower volume on the Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) program, partially offset by higher volume on several other programs.
Operating income for the three months ended September 30, 2016 increased $13 million, or 4 percent, primarily due to higher sales volume. Operating margin rate decreased to 11.2 percent from 11.7 percent principally due to lower margin rates on Manned Aircraft programs due to changes in contract mix, partially offset by improved performance on Autonomous Systems programs.
Year to Date
Aerospace Systems sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 increased $416 million, or 6 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015. The increase was due to higher volume on Manned Aircraft and Autonomous Systems programs, partially offset by lower volume on Space programs. Manned Aircraft sales increased primarily due to higher restricted volume, increased F-35 deliveries and the transition to full rate production on the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye program. These increases were partially offset by fewer F/A-18 deliveries and lower B-2 volume. Autonomous Systems sales increased primarily due to higher volume on the Global Hawk and Triton programs, partially offset by the ramp-down of the NATO AGS program. Space sales declined due to lower volume on the AEHF and James Webb Space Telescope programs, partially offset by higher restricted volume.
Operating income for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 decreased $20 million, or 2 percent, due to lower margins on Manned Aircraft programs, principally due to changes in contract mix and the timing of risk reductions, which more than offset higher sales volume. Operating margin rate decreased to 11.4 percent from 12.3 percent principally due to the lower margins on Manned Aircraft programs noted above, partially offset by improved performance on Space programs.
MISSION SYSTEMS
 
Three Months Ended September 30
 
%
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
 
%
$ in millions
2016
 
2015
 
Change
 
2016
 
2015
 
Change
Sales
$
2,698

 
$
2,723

 
(1
)%
 
$
8,081

 
$
8,062

 
—
%
Operating income
351

 
355

 
(1
)%
 
1,055

 
1,047

 
1
%
Operating margin rate
13.0
%
 
13.0
%
 
 
 
13.1
%
 
13.0
%
 
 
Current Quarter
Mission Systems sales for the three months ended September 30, 2016 decreased $25 million, or 1 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015. The decrease was primarily due to lower volume on Sensors and Processing and Advanced Capabilities programs, partially offset by higher volume on Cyber and ISR programs. Sensors and Processing sales decreased primarily due to lower volume on international and combat avionics programs, partially offset by higher volume on communications programs. Advanced Capabilities sales decreased primarily due to

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

lower volume on a number of navigation and maritime programs, partially offset by higher restricted volume. Cyber and ISR sales reflect higher volume on cyber solutions programs.
Operating income for the three months ended September 30, 2016 decreased $4 million, or 1 percent, primarily due to the lower sales volume described above. Operating margin rate was consistent with the same period in 2015.
Year to Date
Mission Systems sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 increased slightly as compared with the same period in 2015. The increase was due to higher volume on Advanced Capabilities and Sensors and Processing programs, partially offset by lower volume on Cyber and ISR programs. Advanced Capabilities sales increased primarily due to increased restricted volume and ramp-up on the Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program (SEWIP) Block III program. Sensors and Processing sales increased primarily due to ramp-up on the G/ATOR program and higher volume on restricted and communications programs, including the Joint Counter Radio-Controlled Improvised Explosive Device Electronic Warfare program. These increases were partially offset by lower volume on international and combat avionics programs. Cyber and ISR sales reflect lower volume on restricted programs.
Operating income for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 increased $8 million, or 1 percent, primarily due to the higher sales volume described above. Operating margin rate increased to 13.1 percent from 13.0 percent. primarily due to improved performance on Advanced Capabilities and Cyber and ISR programs, partially offset by lower margins on Sensors and Processing programs due to the timing of risk reductions and changes in contract mix.
TECHNOLOGY SERVICES
 
Three Months Ended September 30
 
%
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
 
%
$ in millions
2016
 
2015
 
Change
 
2016
 
2015
 
Change
Sales
$
1,190

 
$
1,193

 
—
 %
 
$
3,617

 
$
3,698

 
(2
)%
Operating income
130

 
128

 
2
 %
 
387

 
389

 
(1
)%
Operating margin rate
10.9
%
 
10.7
%
 
 
 
10.7
%
 
10.5
%
 
 
Current Quarter
Technology Services sales for the three months ended September 30, 2016 were comparable with the same period in 2015. Sales reflect lower volume on Advanced Defense Services programs, partially offset by higher volume on Global Logistics and Modernization programs. Advanced Defense Services sales declined primarily due to the completion of several programs in 2015. Global Logistics and Modernization sales increased principally due to higher volume on the KC-10 program, partially offset by lower volume on the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) program. The increase in KC-10 volume is not indicative of a longer term trend as we expect KC-10 sales will be winding down in 2017 as our contract nears completion.
Operating income for the three months ended September 30, 2016 increased $2 million, or 2 percent, and operating margin rate increased to 10.9 percent from 10.7 percent. Operating income and margin rate increased primarily due to improved performance.
Year to Date
Technology Services sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 decreased $81 million, or 2 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015. The decrease was principally due to lower volume on Advanced Defense Services and Global Logistics and Modernization programs. Advanced Defense Services sales declined primarily due to the completion of several programs during 2015, partially offset by higher volume on the Saudi Arabian Ministry of National Guard Training Support program (through our interest in a joint venture for which we consolidate the financial results). Global Logistics and Modernization sales decreased mainly due to lower volume on the ICBM program, partially offset by higher KC-10 volume. As discussed above, higher KC-10 volume is not indicative of a longer term trend.
Operating income for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 decreased $2 million, or 1 percent, primarily due to the lower sales volume described above. Operating margin rate increased to 10.7 percent from 10.5 percent principally due to improved performance on System Modernization and Services and Global Logistics and Modernization programs, partially offset by lower margins on Advanced Defense Services programs due to the positive impact of EAC adjustments related to the completion of several programs in 2015.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

PRODUCT AND SERVICE ANALYSIS
The following table presents product and service sales and operating costs and expenses by segment:
 
Three Months Ended September 30
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
$ in millions
2016
2015
 
2016
2015
Segment Information:
Sales
Operating Costs and Expenses
Sales
Operating Costs and Expenses
 
Sales
Operating Costs and Expenses
Sales
Operating Costs and Expenses
Aerospace Systems
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Product
$
2,266

$
2,005

$
2,058

$
1,818

 
$
6,480

$
5,711

$
6,045

$
5,308

Service
516

466

486

428

 
1,476

1,336

1,495

1,303

Mission Systems
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Product
1,604

1,395

1,673

1,416

 
4,717

4,082

4,863

4,167

Service
1,094

952

1,050

952

 
3,364

2,944

3,199

2,848

Technology Services
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Product
76

72

95

90

 
239

220

282

267

Service
1,114

988

1,098

975

 
3,378

3,010

3,416

3,042

Segment Totals
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Product
$
3,946

$
3,472

$
3,826

$
3,324

 
$
11,436

$
10,013

$
11,190

$
9,742

Total Service
2,724

2,406

2,634

2,355

 
8,218

7,290

8,110

7,193

Intersegment eliminations
(515
)
(454
)
(481
)
(426
)
 
(1,543
)
(1,355
)
(1,468
)
(1,306
)
Total segment(1)
$
6,155

$
5,424

$
5,979

$
5,253

 
$
18,111

$
15,948

$
17,832

$
15,629

(1) 
The reconciliation of segment operating income to total operating income, as well as a discussion of the reconciling items, is included in Note 3 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1.
Product Sales and Costs
Current Quarter
Product sales for the three months ended September 30, 2016 increased $120 million, or 3 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015. The increase was primarily driven by higher product sales at Aerospace Systems, partially offset by lower product sales at Mission Systems. The increase at Aerospace Systems was primarily due to higher restricted volume, increased F-35 deliveries and the transition to full rate production on the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye program. The decrease at Mission Systems was primarily due to lower volume on international and combat avionics programs.
Product costs for the three months ended September 30, 2016 increased $148 million, or 4 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015. The increase was primarily driven by the changes in product sales described above and lower product margins at Mission Systems.
Year to Date
Product sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 increased $246 million, or 2 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015. The increase was driven primarily by higher product sales at Aerospace Systems, partially offset by lower product sales at Mission Systems. The increase at Aerospace Systems was primarily due to higher restricted volume, increased F-35 deliveries and the transition to full rate production on the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye program. The decrease at Mission Systems was primarily due to lower volume on international and combat avionics programs.
Product costs for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 increased $271 million, or 3 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015. The increase was primarily driven by the changes in product sales described above and lower product margins at Mission Systems.
Service Sales and Costs
Current Quarter
Service sales for the three months ended September 30, 2016 increased $90 million, or 3 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015. The increase was primarily due to ramp-up on several Sensors and Processing service programs at Mission Systems and higher service volume on restricted Space programs at Aerospace Systems.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

Service costs for the three months ended September 30, 2016 increased $51 million, or 2 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015. The increase was primarily driven by the higher service sales described above as well as lower service margins at Aerospace Systems, partially offset by higher service margins at Mission Systems.
Year to Date
Service sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 increased $108 million, or 1 percent as compared with the same period in 2015. The increase was primarily due to ramp-up on several Sensors and Processing service programs at Mission Systems, partially offset by lower service volume on the ICBM program at Technology Services.
Service costs for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 increased $97 million, or 1 percent, as compared with the same period in 2015, consistent with the change in sales volume described above.
BACKLOG
Total backlog includes both funded backlog (firm orders for which funding is authorized and appropriated) and unfunded backlog. Unexercised contract options and indefinite delivery indefinite quantity (IDIQ) contracts are not included in backlog until the time the option or IDIQ task order is exercised or awarded. For multi-year service contracts with non-U.S. Government customers having no stated contract values, backlog includes only the amounts committed by the customer. Backlog is converted into sales as costs are incurred or deliveries are made.
During the nine months ended September 30, 2016, the company’s total backlog increased and reflects higher backlog at Aerospace Systems and Mission Systems and a modest decline in backlog at Technology Services. The company recorded various awards during the nine months ended September 30, 2016, including a portion of the B-21 Long-Range Strike Bomber program.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
We endeavor to achieve the most efficient conversion of operating income into cash for deployment in our business and to maximize shareholder value through other cash deployment activities. In addition to our cash position, we use various financial measures to assist in capital deployment decision-making, including cash provided by operating activities and free cash flow, a non-GAAP measure described in more detail below.
Cash balances and cash generated from operating activities, supplemented by borrowings under credit facilities, if needed, are expected to be sufficient to fund our operations for at least the next 12 months.
Operating Cash Flow
The table below summarizes key components of cash flow provided by operating activities:
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
$ in millions
2016
 
2015
Net earnings
$
1,675

 
$
1,531

Non-cash items(1)
370

 
453

Changes in assets and liabilities:
 
 
 
Trade working capital
(1,034
)
 
(1,121
)
Retiree benefits
318

 
(318
)
Other, net
(47
)
 
(16
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
$
1,282

 
$
529

(1) 
Includes depreciation and amortization, stock based compensation expense (including related excess tax benefits in 2015) and deferred income taxes.
Net cash provided by operating activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 increased $753 million, as compared with the same period in 2015, principally due to a $500 million voluntary pre-tax pension contribution ($325 million after-tax) made in the first quarter of 2015, an increase in net earnings during 2016, the impact of the adoption of ASU No. 2016-09 described in Note 1 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 and changes in trade working capital.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

Free Cash Flow
Free cash flow, as reconciled in the table below, is a non-GAAP measure defined as cash provided by operating activities less capital expenditures, and may not be defined and calculated by other companies in the same manner. We use free cash flow as a key factor in our planning for, and consideration of, acquisitions, stock repurchases and the payment of dividends. This measure may be useful to investors and other users of our financial statements as a supplemental measure of our cash performance, but should not be considered in isolation, as a measure of residual cash flow available for discretionary purposes, or as an alternative to operating results presented in accordance with GAAP.
The table below reconciles cash provided by operating activities to free cash flow:
 
Nine Months Ended September 30
$ in millions
2016
 
2015
Net cash provided by operating activities
$
1,282

 
$
529

Less: capital expenditures
(608
)
 
(334
)
Free cash flow
$
674

 
$
195

Free cash flow for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 increased $479 million, as compared with the same period in 2015, principally due to the increase in net cash provided by operating activities described above (which reflects the $500 million voluntary pension contribution in 2015 described above), partially offset by higher capital expenditures in 2016, including $239 million for the purchase of facilities previously leased by Mission Systems.
Investing Cash Flow
Net cash used in investing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 increased to $605 million from $298 million in the prior year period principally due to higher capital expenditures, including the $239 million purchase of facilities described above.
Financing Cash Flow
Net cash used in financing activities for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 decreased to $1.9 billion from $2.8 billion in the prior year period primarily due to lower share repurchases in 2016, partially offset by $600 million of net proceeds from our issuance of unsecured senior notes in 2015, the impact of the adoption of ASU No. 2016-09 described in Note 1 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 and a debt repayment of $107 million in 2016.
Unsecured Senior Notes - See Note 5 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 for further information on our unsecured senior notes.
Credit Facility and Financial Arrangements - See Note 7 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 for further information on our credit facility and our use of standby letters of credit and guarantees.
Share Repurchases - See Note 2 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 for further information on our share repurchase programs.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES, ESTIMATES AND JUDGMENTS
There have been no material changes to our critical accounting policies, estimates or judgments from those discussed in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
ACCOUNTING STANDARDS UPDATES
See Note 1 to our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AND PROJECTIONS
This Form 10-Q and the information we are incorporating by reference contains statements, other than statements of historical fact, that constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “could,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “believe,” “estimate,” “outlook,” “anticipate,” “trends,” “goals,” and similar expressions generally identify these forward-looking statements.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

Forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements relating to our future financial condition, results of operations and cash flows. Forward-looking statements are based upon assumptions, expectations, plans and projections that we believe to be reasonable when made, but which may change over time. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and inherently involve a wide range of risks and uncertainties that are difficult to predict. Specific risks that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, those identified and discussed more fully in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K. They include:
•
our dependence on the U.S. Government for a substantial portion of our business
•
significant delays or reductions in appropriations for our programs and U.S. Government funding more broadly
•
investigations, claims and/or litigation
•
our exposure to additional risks as a result of our international business
•
the improper conduct of employees, agents, business partners or joint ventures in which we participate and the impact on our reputation and our ability to do business
•
the use of estimates when accounting for our contracts and the effect of contract cost growth and/or changes in estimated contract revenues and costs
•
cyber and other security threats or disruptions faced by us, our customers or our partners
•
the future investment performance of plan assets, changes in actuarial assumptions associated with our pension and other post-retirement benefit plans and related legislative or other regulatory actions
•
the performance and financial viability of our subcontractors and suppliers and the availability and pricing of materials and components
•
increased competition within our markets and bid protests
•
changes in procurement and other laws, regulations and practices applicable to our industry, findings by the U.S. Government, and changes in our customers’ business practices
•
natural and/or environmental disasters
•
the adequacy and availability of our insurance coverage, customer indemnifications or other liability protections
•
products and services we provide related to nuclear and other hazardous and high risk operations, which subject us to various environmental, regulatory, financial, reputational and other risks
•
changes in business conditions that could impact business investments and/or recorded goodwill or the value of other long-lived assets
•
inability to develop new products and technologies and maintain technologies, facilities, equipment and a qualified workforce to win new competitions and meet the needs of our customers
•
inability to meet performance obligations under our contracts
•
unforeseen environmental costs
•
our ability to protect our intellectual property rights
•
unanticipated changes in our tax provisions or exposure to additional tax liabilities
•
our potential exposure to claims, liabilities and reputational harm relating to our former Shipbuilding business
Additional information regarding these risks and other important factors can be found in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K and as disclosed in this report and from time to time in our other filings with the SEC.
You are urged to consider the limitations on, and risks associated with, forward-looking statements and not unduly rely on the accuracy of forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date this report is first filed or, in the case of any document incorporated by reference, the date of that document. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
There have been no material changes to our contractual obligations from those discussed in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Item 3.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
There have been no material changes to our market risks from those discussed in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Item 4.    Controls and Procedures
DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Our principal executive officer (Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President) and principal financial officer (Corporate Vice President and Chief Financial Officer) have evaluated the company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) and Rule 15d-15(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the Exchange Act)) as of September 30, 2016, and have concluded that these controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms. These disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit is accumulated and communicated to management, including the principal executive officer and the principal financial officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
During the three months ended September 30, 2016, no change occurred in our internal controls over financial reporting that materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
We have provided information about certain legal proceedings in which we are involved in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K, and updated that information in Note 6 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1.
We are a party to various investigations, lawsuits, claims and other legal proceedings, including government investigations and claims, that arise in the ordinary course of our business. These types of matters could result in fines; penalties; compensatory, treble or other damages; or non-monetary relief. U.S. Government regulations also provide that certain allegations against a contractor may lead to suspension or debarment from future government contracts or suspension of export privileges for the company or one or more of its components. Suspension or debarment could have a material adverse effect on the company because of our reliance on government contracts and authorizations. The nature of legal proceedings is such that we cannot assure the outcome of any particular matter. However, based on information available to us to date and other than as noted in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K, as updated by Note 6 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in this report, we do not believe that the outcome of any matter currently pending against the company is likely to have a material adverse effect on the company’s unaudited condensed consolidated financial position as of September 30, 2016, its annual results of operations and/or cash flows. For further information on the risks we face from existing and future investigations, lawsuits, claims and other legal proceedings, please see Risk Factors in Part I, Item 1A of our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
For a discussion of our risk factors please see the section entitled “Risk Factors” in our 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
Purchases of Equity Securities – The table below summarizes our repurchases of common stock during the three months ended September 30, 2016:
Period
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
 
Average 
Price
Paid per
Share(1)
 
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced
Plans or
Programs
 
Approximate
Dollar Value of
Shares that May
Yet Be Purchased
under the
Plans or Programs
($ in millions)
July 2, 2016 - July 29, 2016
527,009

 
$
220.30

 
527,009

 
 
$
3,469

July 30, 2016 - August 26, 2016
683,683

 
216.83

 
683,683

 
 
3,321

August 27, 2016 - September 30, 2016
971,175

 
212.61

 
971,175

 
 
3,115

Total
2,181,867

 
$
215.79

 
2,181,867

 
 
$
3,115

(1) 
Includes commissions paid.
Share repurchases take place from time to time, subject to market conditions and management’s discretion, in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions. The company retires its common stock upon repurchase and, in the periods presented, has not made any purchases of common stock other than in connection with these publicly announced repurchase programs.
See Note 2 to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in Part I, Item 1 for further information on our share repurchase programs.
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities
No information is required in response to this item.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
No information is required in response to this item.
Item 5. Other Information
No information is required in response to this item.

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

Item 6. Exhibits
2.1
Agreement and Plan of Merger among Titan II, Inc. (formerly Northrop Grumman Corporation), Northrop Grumman Corporation (formerly New P, Inc.) and Titan Merger Sub Inc., dated March 29, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed April 4, 2011, File No. 001-16411)
 
 
2.2
Separation and Distribution Agreement dated as of March 29, 2011, among Titan II, Inc. (formerly Northrop Grumman Corporation), Northrop Grumman Corporation (formerly New P, Inc.), Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc., Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding, Inc. and Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K filed April 4, 2011, File No. 001-16411)
 
 
*12(a)
Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
 
 
*15
Letter from Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
 
 
*31.1
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Wesley G. Bush (Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)
 
 
*31.2
Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a) Certification of Kenneth L. Bedingfield (Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002)
 
 
**32.1
Certification of Wesley G. Bush pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
 
**32.2
Certification of Kenneth L. Bedingfield pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
 
*101
Northrop Grumman Corporation Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2016, formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive Income, (ii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, (iii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, (iv) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity, and (v) Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
+
Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement
 
 
*
Filed with this report
 
 
**
Furnished with this report

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NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION                        

SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
(Registrant)
 
 
By:
 
 
/s/ Michael A. Hardesty
 
 
Michael A. Hardesty
Corporate Vice President, Controller and
Chief Accounting Officer
(Principal Accounting Officer)
Date: October 25, 2016

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