Defense to throttle up on growth, why privates can coexist with primes

Takes from Defense Forum and Private Company Meetings US defense is in the midst of an upcycle, driven by an increasingly assertive policy stance, the potential for a step‑change in federal defense spending, and accelerating innovation across traditional and non‑traditional contractors. Earlier this month, Ron Epstein hosted discussions at the 18th BofA Global Research Defense Forum in New York, which underscored a bullish multi‑year outlook. U.S. spending could step higher in F27, some of that merely helping to match some European promises when it comes to spend as a percentage of GDP. This will require increased automation for defense companies, an investment theme in its own right. It may also come with more conditions and we discuss whether this could be a risk going forward. Another important topic in the industry is the many innovative private companies in the defense space. Ron discusses some of the areas of focus for these firms and how they can be complementary to defense primes.   You may also enjoy listening to the Merrill Perspectives podcast, featuring conversations on the big stories, news and trends affecting your everyday financial life.   "Bank of America" and “BofA Securities” are the marketing names for the global banking businesses and global markets businesses (which includes BofA Global Research) of Bank of America Corporation. Lending, derivatives, and other commercial banking activities are performed globally by banking affiliates of Bank of America Corporation, including Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Securities, trading, research, strategic advisory, and other investment banking and markets activities are performed globally by affiliates of Bank of America Corporation, including, in the United States, BofA Securities, Inc. a registered broker-dealer and Member of FINRA and SIPC, and, in other jurisdictions, by locally registered entities. ©2026 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.