Item 1. Business
HISTORY AND ORGANIZATION
History
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 into cyberspace. We provide products, systems and solutions in unmanned systems; cyber; command, control, communications and computers (C4), intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR); strike aircraft; and logistics and modernization to government and commercial customers worldwide through our four segments: Aerospace Systems, Electronic Systems, Information Systems and Technical Services. 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 domestic and international commercial customers. For a discussion of risks associated with our operations, see Risk Factors in Part I, Item 1A.
Item 1A. Risk Factors
Our consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows are subject to various risks, many of which are not exclusively within our control, that may cause actual performance to differ materially from historical or projected future performance. We urge you to consider carefully the risk factors described below in evaluating the information contained in this report as the outcome of one or more of these risks could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
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We depend heavily on a single customer, the U.S. Government, for a substantial portion of our business. Changes in this customer’s priorities and spending could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
Our primary customer is the U.S. Government, from which we derived approximately 85 percent of our total sales during each of the past several years. The U.S. Government is implementing significant reductions in government spending and other significant program changes. We cannot predict the impact on existing, follow-on, replacement or future programs from potential changes in priorities due to changes in defense spending levels, military strategy and planning and/or changes in social-political priorities.
The U.S. Government generally has the ability to terminate contracts, in whole or in part, without prior notice, for its convenience or for default based on performance. In the event of termination for the U.S. Government’s convenience, contractors are generally protected by provisions covering reimbursement for costs incurred on the contracts and profit on those costs up to the amount authorized under the contract, but not the anticipated profit that would have been earned had the contract been completed. Termination by the U.S. Government of a contract due to our default could require us to pay for re-procurement costs in excess of the original contract price, net of the value of work accepted from the original contract, as well as other damages. Termination of a contract due to our default could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows and could have a material adverse effect on our ability to compete for other contracts.
The U.S. Government also has the ability to stop work under a contract for a limited period of time for its convenience. It is possible that the U.S. Government could invoke this ability across a limited or broad number of contracts. In the event of a stop work order, contractors are typically protected by provisions covering reimbursement for costs incurred on the contract to date and for costs associated with the temporary stoppage of work on the contract. However, such temporary stoppages and delays could introduce inefficiencies and result in financial and other damages for which we may not be able to negotiate full recovery from the U.S. Government. They could also ultimately result in termination for convenience or reduced future orders.
A significant shift in government priorities to programs in which we do not participate and/or reductions in funding for or the termination of programs in which we do participate, unless offset by other programs and opportunities, could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
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Significant delays or reductions in appropriations for our programs and U.S. Government funding more broadly may negatively impact our business and programs and could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
U.S. Government programs are subject to annual congressional budget authorization and appropriation processes. For many programs, Congress appropriates funds on a fiscal year basis even though the program performance period may extend over several years. Consequently, programs are often partially funded initially and additional funds are
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committed only as Congress makes further appropriations. If we incur costs in excess of funds obligated on a contract, we may be at risk for reimbursement of those costs unless and until additional funds are obligated to the contract. We cannot predict the extent to which total funding and/or funding for individual programs will be included, increased or reduced as part of the annual budget process ultimately approved by Congress or in separate supplemental appropriations or continuing resolutions, as applicable. Plans adopted by the U.S. Government, along with pressures on, and uncertainty surrounding, the federal budget, sequestration, the appropriations process, and the permissible federal debt limit, could adversely affect the funding for individual programs and delay purchasing or payment decisions by our customers. In the event government funding for our significant programs becomes unavailable, or is reduced or delayed, our contract or subcontract under such programs may be terminated or adjusted by the U.S. Government or the prime contractor.
The statutory limit on the amount of permissible federal debt (the debt ceiling) was suspended until March 15, 2015. If the existing debt ceiling is not raised, we may be required to continue to perform for some period of time on certain of our U.S. Government contracts even if the U.S. Government is unable to make timely payments. An extended debt ceiling breach could negatively affect the U.S. Government's timely payment of our billings, resulting in delayed cash collection, and have significant consequences for our company, our employees, our suppliers and the defense industry.
The budget environment, including sequestration as currently mandated, and uncertainty surrounding the appropriations processes, remain significant long-term risks. Considerable uncertainty exists regarding how future budget and program decisions will unfold and what challenges budget reductions will present for the defense industry. We believe continued budget pressures will have serious negative consequences for the security of our country, the defense industrial base, including Northrop Grumman, and the customers, employees, suppliers, investors, and communities that rely on companies in the defense industrial base. Members of Congress continue to discuss various options to address sequestration in future budget planning, but we cannot predict the outcome of these efforts. It is likely budget and program decisions made in this environment will have long-term implications for our company and the entire defense industry.
Long term funding for certain programs in which we participate may be reduced, delayed or cancelled. In addition, budget cuts could adversely affect the viability of our subcontractors and suppliers, and our employee base. While we believe that our business is well-positioned in areas that the Department of Defense (DoD) has indicated are areas of focus for future defense spending, the long-term impact of the Budget Control Act, other defense spending cuts, and the ongoing fiscal debates remain uncertain.
Significant delays or reductions in appropriations, an extended debt ceiling breach, and/or future budget and program decisions may negatively impact our business and programs and could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
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We are subject to various investigations, claims and litigation that could ultimately be resolved against us.
The size, nature and complexity of our business make us susceptible to investigations, claims, and litigation, particularly those involving governments. We are and may become subject to investigations, claims and administrative, civil or criminal litigation globally and across a broad array of matters, including, but not limited to, government contracts, false claims, products liability, fraud, environmental, intellectual property, tax, export/import, labor, health and safety, employee benefits and improper payments. These matters could divert financial and management resources and result in fines, penalties, compensatory, treble or other damages or non-monetary relief. Government regulations also provide that certain allegations against a contractor may lead to suspension or debarment from 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 export authorizations. An investigation, claim or litigation, even if fully indemnified or insured, could also negatively impact our reputation among our customers and the public, and make it more difficult for us to compete effectively or obtain adequate insurance in the future. Investigations, claims or litigation could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
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Our international business exposes us to additional risks.
Sales to customers outside the U.S. are an increasingly important component of our strategy. Our international business is subject to numerous political and economic factors, legal requirements, cross-cultural considerations and other risks associated with doing business in foreign countries. These risks differ in some respects from those associated with our U.S. business and our exposure to such risks may increase if our international business continues to grow as we anticipate.
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Our international business is subject to both U.S. and foreign laws and regulations, including, without limitation, regulations relating to import-export controls, technology transfer restrictions, repatriation of earnings, data privacy and protection, investment, exchange controls, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) and other anti-corruption laws, the anti-boycott provisions of the U.S. Export Administration Act, labor and employment, taxes, security restrictions and intellectual property. Failure by us, our employees, or others working on our behalf to comply with these laws and regulations could result in administrative, civil, or criminal liabilities, including suspension or debarment from government contracts or suspension of our export privileges.
Changes in regulations, political leadership and environment, or security risks may dramatically affect our ability to conduct or continue to conduct business in international markets. Our international business may also be impacted by changes in foreign national priorities and government budgets, as well as global economic conditions and fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. Our international contracts may include industrial cooperation agreements requiring specific in-country purchases, investments, manufacturing agreements or other financial obligations, known as offset obligations, and provide for significant penalties if we fail to meet such requirements.
The services and products we provide internationally, including those provided by subcontractors, are sometimes in countries with unstable governments and/or developing legal systems, in areas of military conflict or at military installations. This increases the risk of political dynamics or an incident resulting in harm or loss of life to our employees, subcontractors or other third parties, or in loss of property or damage to our products. It also exposes the company to additional financial, contractual and legal risks. Accidents or incidents that occur in connection with our international operations could also result in negative publicity, which could adversely affect our reputation and make it more difficult for us to compete for future contracts or attract and retain employees or result in the loss of existing and future contracts.
The occurrence and impact of these factors is difficult to predict, but one or more of them could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
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Our reputation and our ability to do business may be impacted by the improper conduct of employees, agents, business partners or joint ventures in which we participate.
We have implemented extensive policies, procedures, training and other compliance controls to prevent misconduct by employees, agents or others working on our behalf or with us that would violate the applicable laws of the jurisdictions in which we operate, including laws governing improper payments to government officials, the protection of export controlled or classified information, cost accounting and billing, competition and data privacy. However, we cannot ensure that we will prevent all such misconduct committed by our employees, agents, subcontractors or others working on our behalf or with us, and this risk of improper conduct may increase as we expand globally. In addition, in the ordinary course of our business we form and are members of joint ventures, some of which we do not control. We may be unable to prevent misconduct or other violations of applicable laws by these joint ventures. Improper actions by our employees, agents, business partners or joint ventures could subject us to administrative, civil or criminal investigations and monetary and non-monetary penalties, including suspension and debarment, which could negatively impact our reputation and ability to conduct business and could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
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We use estimates when accounting for contracts. Contract cost growth or changes in estimated contract revenues and costs could affect our profitability and our overall financial position.
Contract accounting requires judgment relative to assessing risks, estimating contract revenues and costs, and making assumptions for schedule and technical issues. Due to the size and nature of many of our contracts, the estimation of total revenues and costs at completion is complicated and subject to many variables. Incentives, awards or penalties related to performance on contracts are considered in estimating revenue and profit rates when there is sufficient information to assess anticipated performance. Suppliers’ assertions are also assessed and considered in estimating costs and profitability.
Our operating income can be adversely affected when we experience increased contract costs. Reasons for contract cost growth may include: design issues; the nature and complexity of the work to be performed, including technical or quality issues; production challenges, including those resulting from the availability and timeliness of customer funding, unavailability or reduced productivity of labor or the effect of any delays in performance; the availability, performance, quality or financial strength of significant subcontractors; supplier issues, including the costs, timeliness and availability of materials and components; the effect of any changes in laws or regulations; actions deemed necessary for long-term customer satisfaction; and natural disasters or environmental matters.
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Our risk varies with the type of contract. Due to their nature, fixed-price contracts inherently tend to have more risk than cost type contracts. In 2014, approximately half of our sales were derived from fixed-price contracts. We typically enter into fixed-price contracts where costs can be more reasonably estimated based on experience. In addition, our contracts contain provisions relating to cost controls and audit rights. If the terms specified in our contracts are not met, our profitability may be reduced and we may incur a loss. Fixed-price development work comprises a small portion of our fixed-price contracts. This type of work is inherently more uncertain as to future events than production contracts, and, as a result, there is typically more variability in estimates of the costs to complete the development stage. As work progresses through the development stage into production, the risks associated with estimating the total costs of the contract are typically reduced. While management uses its best judgment to estimate costs associated with fixed-price development contracts, future events could result in either upward or downward adjustments to those estimates. Under cost type contracts, allowable costs incurred by the contractor are generally subject to reimbursement plus a fee. We often enter into cost type contracts for development programs with complex design and technical challenges. These cost type programs typically have award or incentive fees that are subject to uncertainty and may be earned over extended periods or towards the end of the contract. In these cases, the associated financial risks are primarily in recognizing profit, which ultimately may not be earned, or program cancellation if cost, schedule, or technical performance issues arise.
Because of the significance of the judgment and estimation processes described above, it is possible that materially different amounts could be obtained if different assumptions were used or if the underlying circumstances were to change. Changes in underlying assumptions, circumstances or estimates could have a material adverse effect upon the profitability of one or more of the affected contracts and on our overall financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows. See Critical Accounting Policies, Estimates and Judgments in Part II, Item 7.
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Our business could be negatively impacted by cyber and other security threats or disruptions.
As a defense contractor, we face various cyber and other security threats, including attempts to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information and networks; insider threats; threats to the safety of our directors, officers and employees; threats to the security of our facilities and infrastructure; and threats from terrorist acts or other acts of aggression. Our customers, suppliers and subcontractors face similar threats. Although we utilize various procedures and controls to monitor and mitigate the risk of these threats, there can be no assurance that these procedures and controls will be sufficient. These threats could lead to losses of sensitive information or capabilities, harm to personnel, infrastructure or products, and/or damage to our reputation as well as our or our suppliers’ or subcontractors’ ability to perform on our contracts.
Cyber threats are evolving and include, but are not limited to, malicious software, destructive malware, attempts to gain unauthorized access to data, disruption or denial of service attacks, and other electronic security breaches that could lead to disruptions in mission critical systems, unauthorized release of confidential or otherwise protected information (ours or that of our customers or partners), and corruption of data, networks or systems. In addition, we could be impacted by cyber threats or other disruptions or vulnerabilities found in products we use or in our partners’ or customers’ systems that are used in connection with our business. These events, if not prevented or effectively mitigated, could damage our reputation, require remedial actions and lead to loss of business, regulatory actions, potential liability and other financial losses.
We provide cyber and information technology systems, products and services to various customers (government and commercial) who also face cyber threats. Our systems, products and services may themselves be subject to cyber threats and/or they may not be able to detect or deter threats, or effectively to mitigate resulting losses. These losses could adversely affect our customers and our company.
The impact of these factors is difficult to predict, but one or more of them could result in the loss of information or capabilities, harm to individuals or property, damage to our reputation, loss of business, regulatory actions and potential liability, any one of which could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
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Pension and medical expenses associated with our retirement benefit plans may fluctuate significantly depending upon changes in actuarial assumptions, future investment performance of plan assets and legislative or other regulatory actions.
A substantial portion of our current and retired employee population is covered by pension and other post-retirement benefit plans, the costs of which are dependent upon various assumptions, including estimates of rates of return on benefit plan assets, discount rates for future payment obligations, mortality assumptions, rates of future cost growth
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and trends for future costs. In addition, funding requirements for benefit obligations of our pension and other post-retirement benefit plans are subject to legislative and other government regulatory actions.
Recently, the Society of Actuaries released revised mortality tables, which update life expectancy assumptions. In consideration of these tables, we modified the mortality assumptions used in determining our FAS (GAAP Financial Accounting Standards) pension and post-retirement benefit obligations as of December 31, 2014, which will have a related impact on our annual FAS benefit expense in future years. We also updated the mortality assumptions used in determining our future CAS benefit expense. We expect the adoption of new mortality assumptions for purposes of funding our plans will likely trail the adoption for both FAS and CAS purposes. The new mortality assumptions may result in additional funding requirements dependent upon the funded status of our plans. These expectations presume all other assumptions remain constant and there are no changes to applicable funding regulations.
Additionally, due to government regulations including the impact of CAS harmonization, pension plan cost recoveries under our U.S. Government contracts occur in different periods from when those pension costs are recognized for financial statement purposes or when pension funding is made. These timing differences could have a material adverse effect on our cash flows. The cost accounting rules have been revised in order to partially harmonize the measurement and period of assignment of defined benefit pension plan costs allocable to U.S. Government contracts and the minimum required contribution under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), as amended by the Pension Protection Act (PPA) of 2006. These rules better align, but do not eliminate, mismatches between ERISA funding requirements and CAS pension costs for U.S. Government CAS covered contracts.
Changes in estimates and assumptions associated with our pension and other post-retirement benefit plans could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
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Our earnings and profitability depend, in part, on subcontractor performance and financial viability as well as raw material and component availability and pricing.
We rely on other companies to provide raw materials and major components and subsystems for our products and to produce hardware elements and sub-assemblies, provide intellectual property, and perform some of the services we provide to our customers. Disruptions or performance problems caused by our subcontractors and suppliers could have an adverse effect on our ability to meet our commitments to customers.
Our ability to perform our obligations on time could be adversely affected if one or more of our subcontractors or suppliers were unable to provide the agreed-upon products or materials or perform the agreed-upon services in a timely and cost-effective manner. Changes in economic conditions, including changes in defense budgets or credit availability, could adversely affect the financial stability of our subcontractors and suppliers and/or their ability to perform. The inability of our suppliers to perform could also result in the need for us to transition to alternate suppliers, which could result in significant incremental cost and delay or the need for us to provide other supplemental means to support our existing suppliers.
In connection with our U.S. Government contracts, we are required to procure certain materials, components and parts from supply sources approved by the customer. In some cases, there may be only one supplier for certain components. If a sole source supplier cannot meet our needs, we may be unable to find a suitable alternative. Consistent with the industry’s efforts, our procurement practices are intended to reduce the likelihood of our procurement of counterfeit or unauthorized parts or materials. In some circumstances, we must rely on certifications from our subcontractors and suppliers regarding their compliance with applicable laws and regulations regarding the parts or materials we procure.
If certifications received from our subcontractors or suppliers are inaccurate, if we are unable to procure or experience significant delays in supply deliveries of needed materials, components, intellectual property or parts, or if what we receive is counterfeit or otherwise improper, it could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
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Competition within our markets and an increase in bid protests may affect our ability to win new contracts and result in reduced revenues and market share.
We operate in highly competitive markets and our competitors may have more extensive or specialized engineering, manufacturing, marketing capabilities or financial capacity or be willing to accept more risk or lower profitability in competing for contracts. We have seen, and anticipate we will continue to see, increased competition in some of our core markets, especially as a result of the reduction in budgets for many U.S. Government agencies and our customer’s continued focus on affordability and competition. We are facing increasing competition in our domestic and international markets from U.S., foreign and multinational firms. Additionally, some customers, including the
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DoD, may turn to commercial contractors, rather than traditional defense contractors, for some products and services, or may utilize small business contractors or determine to source work internally rather than hiring a contractor.
We also are seeing an increasing number of bid protests from unsuccessful bidders on new program awards. Bid protests could result in contract modifications or the award decision being reversed and loss of the contract award. Even where a bid protest does not result in the loss of an award, the resolution can extend the time until the contract activity can begin, and delay earnings.
If we are unable to continue to compete successfully against our current or future competitors, or prevail in a protest, we may experience declines in future revenues and market share, which could, over time, have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
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As a U.S. Government contractor, we are subject to various procurement and other laws and regulations applicable to our industry and we could be adversely affected by changes in such laws and regulations or any negative findings by the U.S. Government as to our compliance with them.
U.S. Government contractors must comply with many significant procurement regulations and other specific legal requirements. These regulations and other requirements, although customary in government contracts, increase our performance and compliance costs and risks and are regularly evolving. New laws, regulations or procurement requirements or changes to current ones (including, for example, regulations related to limits on recovery of employee compensation costs, counterfeit parts, specialty metals and conflict minerals), can significantly increase our costs and risks and reduce our profitability.
We operate in a highly regulated environment and are routinely audited and reviewed by the U.S. Government and its agencies, such as the Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA), Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) and the DoD Inspector General. These agencies review performance under our contracts, our cost structure and our compliance with applicable laws, regulations and standards, as well as the adequacy of our systems and processes in meeting government requirements. Costs ultimately found to be unallowable or improperly allocated to a specific contract will not be reimbursed or must be refunded if already reimbursed. If an audit uncovers improper or illegal activities, we may be subject to civil and criminal penalties, sanctions, forfeiture of profits or suspension or debarment. Whether or not illegal activities are alleged, the U.S. Government has the ability to decrease or withhold certain payments when it deems systems subject to its review to be inadequate, with significant financial impact. In addition, we could suffer serious reputational harm if allegations of impropriety were made against us.
Our industry has experienced, and we expect it will continue to experience, significant changes to business practices as a result of an increased focus on affordability, efficiencies, recovery of costs and a reprioritization of available defense funds to key areas for future defense spending. As a result of certain of these initiatives, we have experienced and may continue to experience an increased number of audits and/or a lengthened period of time required to close open audits. More recently, the thresholds for certain allowable costs, including compensation costs, have been significantly reduced; others are being challenged, debated and, in certain cases, modified, all with potentially significant financial costs to the company. In connection with these cost reduction initiatives, the U.S. Government is also pursuing alternatives to shift additional responsibility and performance risks to the contractor.
We also are subject to and expected to perform in compliance with a vast array of federal laws, including but not limited to the Truth in Negotiations Act, the False Claims Act, the Procurement Integrity Act, CAS, FAR, the International Traffic in Arms Regulations promulgated under the Arms Export Control Act, the Close the Contractor Fraud Loophole Act and the FCPA. If we are found to have violated the law, or are found not to have acted responsibly as defined by the law, we may be subject to reductions of the value of contracts; contract modifications or termination; the withholding of payments from our customer; the loss of export privileges; the assessment of penalties, fines, or compensatory, treble or other damages; or suspension or debarment.
If we do not comply with the laws, regulations and processes to which we are subject or if business practices change significantly, including with respect to the thresholds for allowable costs, it could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
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Our business is subject to disruption caused by natural and/or environmental disasters that could adversely affect our profitability and our overall financial position.
We have significant operations located in regions that may be exposed to earthquakes, damaging storms and other natural disasters. Our business also may be subject to environmental disasters. Our subcontractors and suppliers are also subject to natural and environmental disasters that could affect their ability to deliver or perform under a
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contract. Although preventative measures may help to mitigate damage, the damage and disruption resulting from natural and environmental disasters may be significant.
Natural and environmental disasters could also disrupt our and our subcontractors’ and suppliers’ workforce, electrical and other power distribution networks, including computer and internet operation and accessibility, and the critical industrial infrastructure needed for normal business operations.
If insurance or other risk transfer mechanisms are unavailable or insufficient to recover all costs or if we experience a significant disruption to our business due to a natural or environmental disaster, it could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
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Our insurance coverage, customer indemnifications or other liability protections may be inadequate to cover all of our significant risks or our insurers may deny coverage of or be unable to pay for material losses we incur, which could adversely affect our profitability and overall financial position.
We endeavor to obtain insurance agreements from financially solid, highly rated counterparties in established markets to cover significant risks and liabilities (including, for example, natural disasters and product liability). Not every risk or liability can be insured, and, for risks that are insurable, the policy limits and terms of coverage reasonably obtainable in the market may not be sufficient to cover all actual losses or liabilities incurred. Even if insurance coverage is available, we may not be able to obtain it at a price or on terms acceptable to us. Disputes with insurance carriers over policy terms or the insolvency of one or more of our insurers may significantly affect the amount or timing of cash flows and, if litigation over coverage terms with the insurer becomes necessary, an outcome unfavorable to us may adversely affect us.
In some circumstances we may be entitled to certain legal protections or indemnifications from our customers through contractual provisions, laws, regulations or otherwise. However, these protections are not always available, are typically subject to certain terms or limitations and may not be sufficient to cover all losses or liabilities incurred.
If available insurance coverage, customer indemnifications and/or other legal protections are not sufficient to cover our risks or losses, it could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
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We provide products and services related to nuclear operations, which subjects us to various environmental, regulatory, financial and other risks.
We provide products and services used in nuclear-related activities (including nuclear-powered platforms) and support nuclear-related operations of third parties. This subjects us to various extraordinary risks, including potential liabilities relating to nuclear-related incidents and the harmful effects on the environment and human health that may result from such nuclear-related activities, operations or incidents, as well as the storage, handling and disposal of radioactive materials. We may be subject to reputational harm and potential liabilities arising out of a nuclear incident, whether or not the cause was within our control. Under some circumstances, the U.S. Government and prime contractors provide for certain indemnification and other protection under certain of our government related contracts, including pursuant to, or in connection with, Public Law 85-804, the Price-Anderson Nuclear Industries Indemnity Act and the Terrorism Risk Insurance Reauthorization Act, for certain nuclear-related risks. If there was a nuclear incident or other nuclear-related damages, and that indemnification or other protection was not available to cover our losses and liabilities, it could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
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Changes in future business conditions could cause business investments and/or recorded goodwill and other long-lived assets to become impaired, resulting in substantial losses and write-downs that would reduce our operating income.
Goodwill accounts for approximately half of our total assets. Market-based inputs to the calculations in the impairment test, such as weighted average cost of capital and terminal value (based on market comparisons) could change significantly from our current assumptions. Additionally, the carrying values of our reporting units are significantly influenced by a number of factors, particularly the discount rate used to determine our net pension liability. We continue to monitor the recoverability of the carrying value of our goodwill and other long-lived assets. Significant write-offs of goodwill or other long-lived assets could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and/or results of operations.
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Our future success depends, in part, on our ability to develop new products and new technologies and maintain technologies, facilities, equipment and a qualified workforce to win new competitions and meet the needs of our customers.
Many of the markets in which we operate are characterized by rapidly changing technologies. The product, program and service needs of our customers change and evolve regularly. Our success in the competitive defense industry depends upon our ability to develop technologically advanced and innovative products and services and market these products and services to our customers. Our success also depends on our ability to provide the people, technologies, facilities, equipment and financial capacity needed to deliver those products and services with maximum efficiency. If we fail to maintain our competitive position, we could lose a significant amount of future business to our competitors, which would negatively impact our ability to generate favorable financial results and maintain market share.
Our operating results are heavily dependent upon our ability to attract and retain sufficient personnel with requisite skills and/or security clearances. If qualified personnel become scarce or difficult to attract or retain in our industry for geographic, compensation-related or other reasons, we could experience higher labor, recruiting or training costs in order to attract and retain necessary employees. Failure to maintain a qualified workforce would result in significant difficulty in performing under our contracts.
Certain of our employees are covered by collective agreements. We generally have been able to renegotiate renewals to expiring agreements without significant disruption of operating activities. If we experience difficulties with renewals and renegotiations of existing collective agreements or if our employees pursue new collective representation, we could incur additional expenses and may be subject to work stoppages. Any such expenses or delays could adversely affect our programs served by employees who are covered by such agreements or representation.
If we are unable to develop new products and technologies or attract and retain a qualified workforce, we may be unable to maintain our competitive position and our future success could be adversely affected.
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Many of our contracts contain performance obligations that require innovative design capabilities, are technologically complex, require state-of-the-art manufacturing expertise or are dependent upon factors not wholly within our control. Failure to meet these obligations could adversely affect our profitability and future prospects.
We design, develop and manufacture technologically advanced and innovative products and services, which are applied by our customers in a variety of environments. Problems and delays in development or delivery, or system failures, as a result of issues with respect to design, technology, intellectual property rights, labor, inability to achieve learning curve assumptions, manufacturing materials or components could prevent us from meeting requirements and create significant risk.
In addition, our products cannot be tested and proven in all situations and are otherwise subject to unforeseen problems. Examples of unforeseen problems that could negatively affect revenue and profitability include loss on launch of spacecraft, loss of aviation platforms, premature failure of products that cannot be accessed for repair or replacement, problems with design, quality and workmanship, country of origin of procured materials, delivery of subcontractor components or services and degradation of product performance. These failures could result, either directly or indirectly, in loss of life or property. Among the factors that may affect revenue and profitability could be inaccurate cost estimates, design issues, human factors, unforeseen costs and expenses not covered by insurance or indemnification from the customer, diversion of management focus in responding to unforeseen problems, loss of follow-on work, and, in the case of certain contracts, repayment to the government customer of contract cost and fee payments we previously received.
Certain contracts, primarily involving space satellite systems, contain provisions that entitle the customer to recover fees in the event of failure of the system upon launch or subsequent deployment for less than a specified period of time. Under such terms, we could be required to forfeit fees previously recognized and/or collected.
If we are unable to meet our performance obligations due to issues regarding the design, development or manufacture of our products or services, or we experience launch, platform or satellite system failures, it could have an adverse impact on our current and future business.
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Unforeseen environmental costs could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
Our operations are subject to and affected by a variety of federal, state, local and foreign environmental laws and regulations. In addition, we could be affected by future laws or regulations, including those imposed in response to climate change concerns and other actions. Compliance with current and future environmental laws and regulations currently requires, and is expected to continue to require, significant operating and capital costs. We may be required to incur additional costs in excess of those anticipated as a result of, among other things, new laws and regulations, stricter enforcement of existing laws and regulations, imposition of new cleanup requirements, discovery of previously unknown or more extensive contamination, litigation involving environmental impacts or sanctions or penalties or a determination that certain environmental costs are unallowable. In addition, if other identified responsible parties are insolvent or otherwise unable to pay their share of such costs, we may be required to incur additional costs in excess of those anticipated.
Environmental laws and regulations provide for substantial fines and criminal sanctions for violations. These laws and regulations may limit our operations or require the installation of costly pollution control equipment or operational changes to limit pollution emissions or discharges and/or decrease the likelihood of accidental hazardous substance releases. We also incur, and expect to continue to incur, costs to comply with current environmental laws and regulations related to the cleanup of pollutants previously released into the environment. In addition, if we were found to be in violation of the Federal Clean Air Act or the Clean Water Act, the facility or facilities involved in the violation could be placed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on a list maintained by the General Services Administration of facilities that generally cannot be used in performing on U.S. Government contracts until the violation is corrected.
The impact of these factors is difficult to predict, but one or more of them could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
▪
We may be unable adequately to protect our intellectual property rights, which could affect our ability to compete.
We own many U.S. and foreign patents, trademarks, copyrights, and other forms of intellectual property, and we license certain intellectual property rights to and from third parties. The U.S. Government generally holds licenses to certain intellectual property that we develop in performance of government contracts, and it may use or authorize others to use certain such intellectual property, typically for government purposes. More recently, we believe the U.S. Government has asserted or sought to obtain more extensive rights in intellectual property. The U.S. Government's efforts could result in a decrease in our ability to control the use of certain of our intellectual property rights in a government contracting environment. Our intellectual property is also subject to challenge, invalidation, misappropriation or circumvention by third parties.
We also rely significantly upon proprietary technology, information, processes and know-how that are not protected by patents. We seek to protect this information through trade secret or confidentiality agreements with our employees, consultants, subcontractors and other parties, as well as through other measures. These agreements and other measures may not provide adequate protection for our unpatented proprietary information. In the event of an infringement of our intellectual property rights, a breach of a confidentiality agreement or divulgence of proprietary information, we may not have adequate legal remedies to maintain our intellectual property. Litigation to determine the scope of intellectual property rights, even if ultimately successful, could be costly and could divert management’s attention away from other aspects of our business. In addition, our trade secrets may otherwise become known or be independently developed by competitors. In some instances, we have licensed the proprietary intellectual property of others, but we may be unable in the future to secure the necessary licenses to use such intellectual property on commercially reasonable terms. Moreover, the laws concerning intellectual property rights vary among countries and the protection provided to our intellectual property by these laws and foreign courts may not be the same as the remedies available under U.S. law.
If we are unable adequately to control or protect our intellectual property rights against claims by the U.S. Government or others, or otherwise procure necessary intellectual property, it could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
▪
Unanticipated changes in our tax provisions or exposure to additional tax liabilities could affect our profitability and cash flow.
We are subject to income and other taxes in the U.S. and foreign jurisdictions. Changes in applicable domestic or foreign tax laws and regulations, or their interpretation and application, including the possibility of retroactive effect, could affect our tax expense and profitability. For example, a change in the U.S. corporate tax rate would
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
result in a remeasurement of our net deferred tax assets through the income tax provision because our deferred tax assets are measured at the current statutory tax rate. In addition, the final determination of any tax audits or related litigation could be materially different from our historical income tax provisions and accruals. Changes in our tax provision or an increase in our tax liabilities, whether due to changes in applicable law and regulations, the interpretation or application thereof, changes in the tax rate or a final determination of tax audits or litigation, could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
▪
The spin-off of our former Shipbuilding business may expose us to potential claims, liabilities and reputational harm.
In connection with the spin-off transaction, we entered into a number of agreements with HII setting forth certain rights and obligations of the parties after the separation. For example, under the Separation and Distribution Agreement, from and after the spin-off transaction, each of HII and Northrop Grumman is generally responsible for the debts, liabilities and other obligations related to the business or businesses that it owns and operates following the consummation of the spin-off. It is possible that a court would disregard the allocation agreed to between us and HII, and require that we assume responsibility for certain obligations allocated to HII (for example, tax and/or environmental liabilities), particularly if HII were to refuse or were unable to pay or perform such obligations.
In addition, third parties could seek to hold us responsible for any of the liabilities or obligations for which HII has agreed to be responsible and/or to indemnify us, directly or indirectly. The indemnity related rights we have under our agreements with HII may not be sufficient to protect us against such liabilities. Even if we ultimately succeed in recovering from HII or the U.S. Government any amounts for which we are held liable, we may be required to record these losses ourselves until such time as the indemnity contribution is paid. In addition, certain indemnities that we may be required to provide HII are not subject to a cap, may be significant, and could negatively impact our business.
In connection with the spin-off transaction, we received a letter ruling from the IRS and an opinion of counsel confirming that we and our shareholders would not recognize any taxable income, gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a result of the merger, the internal reorganization or the distribution, except that our shareholders who received cash in lieu of fractional shares would recognize gain or loss with respect to such cash. Nevertheless, if the merger, the internal reorganization or the distribution were ultimately determined to be taxable for U.S. federal income tax purposes, we and our shareholders could be subject to additional income tax liabilities.
The impact of these factors is difficult to predict, but one or more of them could cause reputational harm and could have an adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and/or cash flows.
Item 1B.
Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments
None.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS AND PROJECTIONS
This Form 10-K and the information we are incorporating by reference contain 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. 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 under Risk Factors in Part I, Item 1A and other important factors 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.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Item 2.
Item 2. Properties
At December 31, 2014, we had approximately 34 million square feet of floor space at 485 separate locations, primarily in the U.S., for manufacturing, warehousing, research and testing, administration and various other uses. At December 31, 2014, we leased to third parties approximately 350,000 square feet of our owned and leased facilities, and had vacant floor space of approximately 1 million square feet.
At December 31, 2014, we had major operations at the following locations:
AEROSPACE SYSTEMS
Carson, El Segundo, Manhattan Beach, Mojave, Palmdale, Redondo Beach and San Diego, CA; Melbourne and St. Augustine, FL; Devens, MA; Moss Point, MS; and Bethpage, NY.
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS
Azusa, Sunnyvale and Woodland Hills, CA; Apopka, FL; Rolling Meadows, IL; Annapolis, Elkridge, Halethorpe, Linthicum and Sykesville, MD; Williamsville, NY; Cincinnati, OH; Salt Lake City, UT; and Charlottesville, VA. Locations outside the U.S. include France, Germany and Italy.
INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Huntsville, AL; McClellan, Redondo Beach, San Diego and San Jose, CA; Aurora and Colorado Springs CO; Annapolis Junction, MD; Bellevue, NE; Beavercreek, OH; and Chantilly, Chester, Fairfax, Herndon, McLean and Richmond, VA.
TECHNICAL SERVICES
Sierra Vista, AZ; Warner Robins, GA; Lake Charles, LA; Hill Air Force Base, UT; and Herndon, VA.
CORPORATE
Falls Church and Lebanon, VA and Irving, TX.
The following is a summary of our floor space at December 31, 2014:
We maintain our properties in good operating condition and believe that the productive capacity of our properties is adequate to meet current contractual requirements and those for the foreseeable future.
Item 3.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings
We have provided information about certain legal proceedings in which we are involved in Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8.
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 U.S. 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 Note 10 to the consolidated financial statements, 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 consolidated financial position as of December 31, 2014, its annual results of operations and/or cash flows. For further information on the risks we face
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
from existing and future investigations, lawsuits, claims and other legal proceedings, please see Risk Factors in Part I, Item 1A.
Item 4.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures
No information is required in response to this item.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
PART II
Item 5.
Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
COMMON STOCK
We have 800,000,000 shares authorized at a $1 par value per share, of which 198,930,240 shares and 217,599,230 shares were outstanding as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
PREFERRED STOCK
We have 10,000,000 shares authorized at a $1 par value per share, of which no shares were issued and outstanding as of December 31, 2014 and 2013.
MARKET INFORMATION
Our common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and trades under the symbol NOC.
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the intraday high and low prices of our common stock as reported in the consolidated reporting system for the New York Stock Exchange Composite Transactions.
HOLDERS
The approximate number of common stockholders was 26,699 as of January 29, 2015.
DIVIDENDS
Quarterly dividends per common share for the most recent two years are as follows:
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFLIATED PURCHASERS
The table below summarizes our repurchases of common stock during the three months ended December 31, 2014:
(1)
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. As of December 31, 2014, repurchases under the 2013 Repurchase Program totaled $3.6 billion; $447 million remained under this share repurchase authorization. By its terms, the 2013 Repurchase Program will expire when we have used all authorized funds for repurchases. On December 4, 2014, the company's board of directors authorized a new share repurchase program of up to an additional $3.0 billion of the company's common stock ("2014 Repurchase Program"). By its terms, repurchases under the 2014 Repurchase Program will commence upon completion of the 2013 Repurchase Program and will expire when we have used all authorized funds for repurchases.
(2)
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 has not made any purchases of common stock other than in connection with these publicly announced repurchase programs.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
STOCK PERFORMANCE GRAPH
Comparison of Cumulative Five Year Total Return
Among Northrop Grumman Corporation, the S&P 500 Index,
and the S&P Aerospace & Defense Index
(1)
Assumes $100 invested at the close of business on December 31, 2009, in Northrop Grumman Corporation common stock, Standard & Poor’s (S&P) 500 Index and the S&P Aerospace & Defense Index.
(2)
The cumulative total return assumes reinvestment of dividends. In March 2011, we completed the spin-off of Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc. (HII). Our shareholders received one share of HII common stock for every six shares of our common stock held on the record date. The effect of the spin-off is reflected in the cumulative total return as a reinvested dividend.
(3)
The S&P Aerospace & Defense Index is comprised of The Boeing Company, General Dynamics Corporation, Honeywell International Inc., L-3 Communications, Lockheed Martin Corporation, Northrop Grumman Corporation, Precision Castparts Corporation, Raytheon Company, Rockwell Collins, Inc., Textron, Inc. and United Technologies Corporation.
(4)
The total return is weighted according to market capitalization of each company at the beginning of each year.
(5)
This graph is not deemed to be "filed" with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) or subject to the liabilities of Section 18 of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934 (the Exchange Act), and should not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any of our prior or subsequent filings under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Exchange Act.
SECURITIES AUTHORIZED FOR ISSUANCE UNDER EQUITY COMPENSATION PLANS
For a description of securities authorized under our equity compensation plans, see Note 13 to our consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Item 6.
Item 6. Selected Financial Data
The data presented in the following table is derived from the audited consolidated financial statements and other information. 2011 and 2010 data is adjusted to reflect the effects of discontinued operations.
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
(1)
Other customer sales include foreign military sales.
(2)
Other long-term obligations include pension and other post-retirement benefit plan liabilities, deferred compensation, unrecognized tax benefits, environmental liabilities and other long-term obligations.
(3)
Free cash flow from continuing operations is a non-GAAP financial measure and is calculated as cash provided by continuing operations less capital expenditures. See Liquidity and Capital Resources - Free Cash Flow in Part II, Item 7
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
OVERVIEW
Political and Economic Environment
The U.S. Government continues to face substantial fiscal and economic challenges, which affect funding for its discretionary and non-discretionary budgets. Part I of the Budget Control Act of 2011 (Budget Control Act) provided for a reduction in planned defense budgets by at least $487 billion over a ten year period. Part II mandated substantial additional reductions, through a process known as “sequestration,” which took effect in March 2013.
In December 2013, Congress passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Congress also passed, and the President signed into law, the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013, which set discretionary spending levels for fiscal year (FY) 2014 and FY 2015. The legislation provided for additional budget funding of approximately $63 billion over FY 2014 and FY 2015. The additional funding alleviated some budget cuts that would otherwise have been instituted through sequestration in FY 2014 and FY 2015.
In February 2014, the President signed into law the Temporary Debt Limit Extension Act, suspending the statutory limit on the amount of permissible federal debt (the debt ceiling) until March 15, 2015. If the existing debt ceiling is not raised, we may be required to continue to perform for some period of time on certain of our U.S. Government contracts even if the U.S. Government is unable to make timely payments. An extended debt ceiling breach could negatively affect the U.S. Government's timely payment of our billings, resulting in delayed cash collection, and have significant consequences for our company, our employees, our suppliers and the defense industry.
In March 2014, the DoD released its Quadrennial Defense Review (QDR), a congressionally-mandated report that discusses the DoD’s long-term strategies and priorities. The QDR recommends spending above the sequester levels and identifies potential impacts if sequester caps are imposed again in 2016. In July 2014, the National Defense Panel, a bi-partisan group of senior civilians and military officers appointed by Congress to review the QDR, recommended repealing the 2011 Budget Control Act and returning to higher defense funding levels. It is unclear whether or how the results of these strategic reviews could impact future budget plans.
In December 2014, Congress passed and the President signed into law the Consolidated and Further Appropriations Act of 2015, providing for federal spending levels for FY 2015 consistent with the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013.
The Administration is currently preparing its FY 2016 budget request, which is expected to be submitted to Congress in the first calendar quarter of 2015. Congressional authorization and appropriation of defense and other spending for FY 2016 and beyond (including whether by appropriations bills or continuing resolutions) and the application of sequestration remain marked by significant debate and an uncertain schedule. Congress and the Administration also continue to debate the debt ceiling, among other fiscal issues, as they negotiate plans for long-term national fiscal policy. The outcome of these debates could have a significant impact on defense spending broadly and the company's programs in particular.
The budget environment, including sequestration as currently mandated, remains a significant long-term risk. Considerable uncertainty exists regarding how future budget and program decisions will unfold and what challenges budget reductions will present for the defense industry. We believe continued budget pressures will have serious negative consequences for the security of our country, the defense industrial base, including Northrop Grumman, and the customers, employees, suppliers, investors, and communities that rely on companies in the defense industrial base. Members of Congress continue to discuss various options to address sequestration in future budget planning, but we cannot predict the outcome of these efforts. It is likely budget and program decisions made in this environment will have long-term impacts on our company and the entire defense industry.
We believe spending on recapitalization, modernization and maintenance of defense, intelligence, and homeland security assets will continue to be a national priority. Future defense spending is expected to include the development and procurement of new manned and unmanned military platforms and systems, along with advanced electronics and software to enhance the capabilities of existing individual systems and provide real-time integration of surveillance, information management, strike and battle management platforms. We expect significant new competitive opportunities to include long range strike, missile defense, command and control, network communications, enhanced situational awareness, satellite systems, restricted programs, cyber, technical services and information technology, as well as numerous homeland security programs.
The company believes it has additional international opportunities (direct and foreign military sales), beyond those realized today, to sell its products and services outside the U.S. market, particularly in the domains of unmanned systems, cyber, C4ISR, logistics and manned military aircraft. The Administration has been addressing and supporting export control reforms that could enhance our ability to take advantage of these opportunities. The
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
company is dedicating additional resources to expanding its international sales with emphases on Australia, the Middle East, Asia and Europe. To the extent these efforts are successful, increases in international awards, sales, profits and cash flows may offset, or partially offset, potential declines resulting from the U.S. political and economic environment described above.
For further information on the risks we face from the current political and economic environment, see Risk Factors in Part I, Item 1A.
Operating Performance Assessment
We manage and assess our business based on our performance on contracts and programs (typically two or more closely-related contracts). Sales from our portfolio of long-term contracts are primarily recognized using the cost-to-cost method of percentage of completion accounting, but in some cases the units-of-delivery method of percentage of completion accounting is utilized. 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, and 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 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 four 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 changes in contract operating margin rates for the period, as well as the continuing effect of prior cumulative catch-up adjustments. Both are primarily related to the changes in estimates referred to above.
CONSOLIDATED OPERATING RESULTS
Selected financial highlights are presented in the table below:
Sales
Sales for 2014 decreased $682 million, or 3 percent, as compared with 2013. Sales for 2013 decreased $557 million, or 2 percent, as compared with 2012.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
The table below shows the variances in segment sales from the respective prior years:
For further information by segment refer to Segment Operating Results below, and for product and service detail, refer to the Product and Service Analysis section that follows Segment Operating Results.
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 general and administrative costs are allocated on a systematic basis to contracts in progress.
Operating costs and expenses comprise the following:
2014 - Product costs as a percentage of product sales for 2014 were 74.4 percent, as compared to 75.7 percent during 2013. The decrease is mainly due to the settlements described in the Segment Operating Results section below, and the continuing benefit of higher margin rates resulting from previous net favorable adjustments. Service costs as a percentage of service sales for 2014 were 79.8 percent, as compared to 81.5 percent during 2013. The decrease was mainly due to improved performance across a number of service programs at Information Systems and the continuing benefit of higher margin rates resulting from previous net favorable adjustments at Aerospace Systems.
2013 - Product costs as a percentage of product sales for 2013 were 75.7 percent, as compared to 75.3 percent during 2012; the increase is primarily due to lower product operating margins in newly awarded programs at Information Systems. Service costs as a percentage of service sales for 2013 were 81.5 percent, as compared to 81.0 percent during 2012; the increase is primarily due to lower service operating margins at Aerospace Systems and Information Systems.
For further information regarding product and service sales and costs, see the Product and Service Analysis section that follows Segment Operating Results.
2014 - General and administrative expenses as a percentage of total sales increased to 10.0 percent in 2014, from 9.1 percent in 2013. The increase largely reflects increased investment for future business.
2013 - General and administrative expenses as a percentage of total sales decreased to 9.1 percent in 2013, from 9.7 percent in 2012. The decrease reflects lower indirect costs principally related to cost reduction initiatives at Information Systems, as well as lower bid and proposal expenses.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Operating Income
We define operating income as sales less operating costs and expenses, which includes general and administrative expenses. Changes in estimated contract operating margin at completion, resulting from changes in estimated sales, operating costs and expenses, are recorded using the cumulative catch-up method of accounting, which in aggregate can have a significant effect on our reported sales and operating income in each of our reporting periods. Cumulative catch-up adjustments are presented in the table below:
Net cumulative catch-up adjustments by segment are presented in the table below:
Federal and Foreign Income Taxes
2014 - Our effective tax rate for 2014 was 29.6 percent, as compared with 31.8 percent in 2013. The company's lower effective tax rate for 2014 reflects a $51 million benefit for the partial resolution of its 2007-2009 Internal Revenue Service (IRS) examination.
2013 - Our effective tax rate for 2013 was 31.8 percent, as compared with 33.3 percent in 2012. The company's lower effective tax rate for 2013 includes a $37 million benefit for the American Taxpayer Relief Act, enacted in January 2013, which reinstated research tax credits for 2012 and 2013, and a $21 million benefit for higher section 199 manufacturing deductions than in prior year.
Net Earnings
2014 - Net earnings for 2014 increased by $117 million, or 6 percent, as compared with 2013. The higher earnings are primarily due to an increase in net FAS (GAAP Financial Accounting Standards)/CAS pension adjustment and the lower effective tax rate described above, which were partially offset by an increase in unallocated corporate expenses. For further information regarding net FAS/CAS pension adjustment and unallocated corporate expenses, see the Segment Operating Results section.
2013 - Net earnings for 2013 decreased $26 million, or 1 percent, as compared with 2012. The lower earnings reflect lower segment operating income, partially offset by the lower effective tax rate described above. For further information regarding segment operating income, see the Segment Operating Results section.
Diluted Earnings Per Share
2014 - Diluted earnings per share for 2014 increased by $1.40, or 17 percent, as compared with 2013. The increase reflects lower weighted-average shares outstanding resulting from shares repurchased in 2013 and 2014 and the higher net earnings discussed above.
2013 - Diluted earnings per share for 2013 increased by $0.54, or 7 percent, as compared with 2012. The increase principally reflects lower weighted-average shares outstanding resulting from shares repurchased in 2012 and 2013.
Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities
2014 - Net cash provided by operating activities for 2014 increased by $110 million, or 4 percent, as compared with 2013, principally due to a $500 million voluntary pre-tax pension contribution made in April 2013, partially offset by changes in trade working capital during 2014.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
2013 - Net cash provided by operating activities for 2013 decreased by $157 million, or 6 percent, as compared with 2012, principally due to higher voluntary pension contributions in 2013, partially offset by changes in trade working capital. In 2013, we contributed $579 million to our pension plans, of which $500 million was voluntarily pre-funded, as compared with $367 million in 2012, of which $300 million was voluntarily pre-funded.
SEGMENT OPERATING RESULTS
Basis of Presentation
We are aligned in four segments: Aerospace Systems, Electronic Systems, Information Systems and Technical Services. This section discusses segment sales, operating income and operating margin rates. The reconciliation of segment sales to total sales is provided in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8. The reconciliation of segment operating income to total operating income, as well as discussion of the reconciling items, is provided in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8. For purposes of the discussion in this Segment Operating Results section, references to operating income and operating margin rate reflect segment operating income and segment operating margin rate.
In 2014, the company acquired Qantas Defence Services Pty Limited (QDS), now called Northrop Grumman Integrated Defence Services Pty Limited (Northrop Grumman IDS) for a final purchase price of $85 million in cash. Northrop Grumman IDS provides integrated logistics, sustainment and modernization support primarily to Australian government and military customers. The fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed and the results of operations of Northrop Grumman IDS are included in the Technical Services segment. These amounts were not material to the company's consolidated financial statements.
For a more complete description of each segment’s products and services, see the business descriptions in Part I, Item 1.
Segment Operating Income
Segment operating income, as reconciled below, is a non-GAAP measure and is used by management as an internal measure of financial performance for our operating segments. Segment operating income reflects total earnings from our four segments, including allocated pension expense recognized under CAS and excludes unallocated corporate items, including FAS pension expense.
2014 - Segment operating income for 2014 increased by $19 million, or 1 percent, as compared with 2013. The increase in segment operating income was principally due to a $75 million benefit realized in connection with agreements reached with the U.S. Government to settle certain claims relating to use of the company's intellectual property and a terminated program and a segment operating margin benefit of approximately $45 million as a result of lower 2014 CAS costs due to the Highway and Transportation Funding Act of 2014 (HATFA) legislation described below, which more than offset the impact of lower sales volume.
2013 - Segment operating income for 2013 decreased by $96 million, or 3 percent, as compared with 2012. The decrease in segment operating income was principally due to lower sales. The decrease in operating margin rate reflects lower net favorable adjustments in 2013, partially offset by higher contract margin rates across our portfolio resulting from several factors, including the continuing effect of prior net favorable adjustments.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
The table below reconciles segment operating income to total operating income by including the impact of net FAS/CAS pension adjustments, as well as certain corporate-level expenses, which are not considered allowable or allocable under applicable CAS or FAR:
Net FAS/CAS Pension Adjustment
For financial statement purposes, we account for our employee pension plans in accordance with GAAP under FAS. However, the cost of these plans is charged to our contracts in accordance with the FAR and the related CAS that govern such plans. The net FAS/CAS pension adjustment reflects the difference of pension expense charged to contracts and included as cost in segment operating income less pension expense determined in accordance with GAAP.
2014 - The increase in net FAS/CAS pension adjustment is principally due to a reduction in FAS expense, largely due to the increase in our FAS discount rate assumptions as of December 31, 2013. The reduction in FAS expense was partially offset by lower CAS expense due to the passage of HATFA, which included provisions that reduce the amount of CAS expense charged to our contracts.
2013 - The increase in net FAS/CAS pension adjustment reflects an update for actual demographic experience as of January 1, 2013, which resulted in an increase to the company's 2013 CAS expense.
Unallocated Corporate Expenses
Unallocated corporate expenses generally include the portion of corporate expenses, other than FAS pension costs, not considered allowable or allocable under applicable CAS and FAR rules, and therefore not allocated to the segments, such as a portion of management and administration, legal, environmental, certain compensation and retiree benefits, and other expenses.
2014 - The increase in unallocated corporate expense for 2014, as compared to 2013, is primarily due to increases in year-over-year provisions for environmental matters.
2013 - The decrease in unallocated corporate expenses for 2013, as compared to 2012, is primarily due to lower year-over-year provisions for disallowed costs and litigation matters and the favorable settlement of overhead claims, partially offset by changes in deferred tax assets due to lower blended state income tax rates.
AEROSPACE SYSTEMS
2014 - Aerospace Systems sales for 2014 were comparable to 2013, and include the impact of the settlements described in the Segment Operating Income section above. Excluding the settlements, Aerospace Systems had lower sales in unmanned, space and manned military aircraft programs. The decrease in unmanned programs reflects declines of $136 million on Global Hawk due to lower production activity and $111 million on Fire Scout as a result of lower development activity. These declines were partially offset by $135 million of higher volume on the NATO Alliance Ground Surveillance (AGS) program. The decrease in space programs was mainly due to lower volume on the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and Advanced Extremely High Frequency (AEHF) programs. The decrease in manned military aircraft programs was primarily the result of lower volume on the Joint Surveillance
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Target Attack Radar System, and B-2 programs, partially offset by higher volume of $87 million on the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye program.
Operating income for 2014 increased $100 million, or 8 percent, and operating margin rate increased to 13.2 percent, from 12.1 percent. Higher operating income and margin rate in 2014 were primarily due to the settlements described above and improved performance.
2013 - Aerospace Systems sales for 2013 were slightly higher than 2012, due to higher volume on manned military aircraft programs, offset by lower volume on unmanned and space programs. The increase in manned military aircraft programs reflects higher sales of $107 million from increased deliveries on the program, as well as higher volume on the B-2 and E-2D Advanced Hawkeye programs, partially offset by lower volume on various other programs. The decrease for unmanned programs reflects lower sales of $295 million on the Global Hawk program largely due to ramp-down on sustainment, support and logistics contracts, partially offset by higher sales of $187 million on the NATO AGS program resulting from ramp-up activities. The decrease in space programs reflects lower volume for restricted programs due to ramp-down activities, and higher volume on the JWST and AEHF programs.
Operating income and operating margin rate for 2013 were comparable to 2012. Operating income and operating margin rate also reflect the impact of a forward loss recognized on a restricted program, which was offset by the continuing effect of higher contract margin rates across the segment principally related to prior net favorable adjustments.
ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS
2014 - Electronic Systems sales for 2014 decreased $198 million, or 3 percent, as compared with 2013. Lower sales are principally due to lower volume for land and self-protection programs, including lower deliveries of $174 million on infrared countermeasures and laser systems; lower volume for domestic intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and targeting programs, including $93 million of lower deliveries on combat avionics; and $109 million of lower volume for navigation and maritime programs. The declines were partially offset by higher sales of $178 million on international programs.
Operating income for 2014 decreased $78 million, or 6 percent, and operating margin rate decreased to 16.5 percent from 17.1 percent. Operating income and margin rate for 2014 declined primarily due to a reduction in net favorable adjustments, lower volume and the absence in 2014 of the benefit from the reversal of a $26 million non-programmatic risk reserve in 2013.
2013 - Electronic Systems sales for 2013 increased $199 million, or 3 percent, as compared with 2012. The increase was due to higher sales on international programs of $244 million and space programs, partially offset by lower sales on navigation and maritime systems programs of $132 million due to decreased deliveries, as well as lower volume on laser systems programs associated with in-theater force reductions.
Operating income for 2013 increased $39 million, or 3 percent, as compared with 2012, consistent with the higher sales volume described above. Operating margin rate was comparable with 2012, and reflects higher margin rates on our current portfolio of programs, a reduction in net favorable adjustments and the reversal of a $26 million non-programmatic risk reserve.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
INFORMATION SYSTEMS
2014 - Information Systems sales for 2014 decreased $374 million, or 6 percent, as compared with 2013. Sales principally declined as a result of lower volume of $294 million on C2 programs and $62 million on Communications programs due to in-theater force reductions, reduced funding levels and the wind-down of various programs.
Operating income for 2014 decreased $22 million, or 3 percent, and operating margin rate increased to 9.8 percent from 9.6 percent. The lower operating income is primarily a result of the lower sales described above. The higher operating margin rate reflects additional operating income resulting from improved performance.
2013 - Information Systems sales for 2013 decreased $760 million, or 10 percent, as compared with 2012. The sales decline includes a $98 million impact for the transfer of intercompany efforts to our corporate shared services organization. Excluding the transfer, 2013 sales declined 9 percent due to lower funding levels, including the impacts of sequestration, and lower volume for programs impacted by in-theater force reductions and contract completions.
Operating income for 2013 decreased $128 million, or 17 percent, as compared with 2012. Operating margin rate decreased to 9.6 percent in 2013 from 10.3 percent in 2012. Lower operating income and operating margin rate were primarily due to the lower sales volume described above and a $73 million reduction in net favorable adjustments compared with the prior year.
TECHNICAL SERVICES
2014 - Technical Services sales for 2014 decreased $44 million, or 2 percent, as compared with 2013. The decrease was primarily due to lower volume on the InterContinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), Hunter and Combined Tactical Training Range programs, which were partially offset by growth in international sales, principally as a result of the acquisition of QDS in the first quarter of 2014.
Operating income and margin rate for 2014 were comparable to 2013.
2013 - Technical Services sales for 2013 decreased $176 million, or 6 percent, as compared with 2012. The decrease was primarily due to lower sales of $127 million on the ICBM and integrated logistics and modernization programs, as well as portfolio shaping efforts.
Operating income for 2013 decreased $6 million, or 2 percent, as compared with 2012. Operating margin rate increased to 9.2 percent in 2013 from 8.9 percent in 2012. Lower operating income was driven by the lower sales volume described above, partially offset by higher operating margin rate primarily due to improved performance across a number of programs.
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PRODUCT AND SERVICE ANALYSIS
The following table presents product and service sales and operating costs and expenses by segment:
(1)
The reconciliation of segment operating income to total operating income, as well as a discussion of the reconciling items, is included in the Segment Operating Results section above.
Product Sales and Product Costs
2014 - Product sales for 2014 were slightly higher than 2013, primarily due to higher product sales at Information Systems, offset by lower product sales at Aerospace Systems. The increase at Information Systems was primarily due to higher product sales on certain restricted and C2 programs. The decrease at Aerospace Systems was primarily driven by lower product volume in unmanned and space programs, partially offset by the settlements described in the Segment Operating Results section above.
Product costs for 2014 were slightly higher than 2013, primarily due to higher product costs at Information Systems, offset by lower product costs at Aerospace Systems, consistent with the changes in product sales described above.
2013 - Product sales for 2013 were comparable with 2012, primarily due to lower product sales at Aerospace Systems, offset by higher product sales at Information Systems and Electronic Systems. The decrease at Aerospace Systems reflects the revision in the classification of certain operations, maintenance and sustainment contracts from product to service in 2013. The increase at Information Systems was primarily due to newly awarded product contracts and the increase at Electronic Systems was primarily driven by higher volume as described in the Segment Operating Results section above.
Product costs for 2013 were comparable with 2012, primarily due to lower product costs at Aerospace Systems, offset by higher product costs at Information Systems and Electronic Systems. The decrease at Aerospace Systems was consistent with the classification change noted above. The decrease was offset by newly awarded product contracts at Information Systems and higher sales volume at Electronic Systems, as described above.
Service Sales and Service Costs
2014 - Service sales for 2014 decreased $686 million, or 6 percent, as compared with 2013. The decrease was primarily driven by lower service sales at Information Systems, principally from reduced volume on restricted work and the impacts of in-theater force reductions as described in the Segment Operating Results section above.
Service costs for 2014 decreased $673 million, or 6 percent, as compared with 2013 consistent with the change in service sales described above.
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2013 - Service sales for 2013 decreased $688 million, or 6 percent, as compared with 2012, primarily due to lower service sales at Information Systems partially offset by higher service sales at Aerospace Systems. The decrease at Information Systems is due to lower service sales across a number of programs, as described in the Segment Operating Results section above. The higher service sales at Aerospace Systems reflects the revision in the classification of certain contracts from product to service, as described above, and higher volume on certain military aircraft service contracts in 2013.
Service costs for 2013 decreased $553 million, or 5 percent, as compared with 2012, primarily due to lower service volume at Information Systems, partially offset by higher service sales at Aerospace Systems, consistent with the change in service sales 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.
Backlog consisted of the following at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
Approximately $19.3 billion of the $38.2 billion total backlog at December 31, 2014, is expected to be converted into sales in 2015. U.S. Government orders comprised 82 percent of total backlog at the end of 2014. International orders, including foreign military sales, accounted for 14 percent of total backlog at the end of 2014. Domestic commercial backlog represented 4 percent of total backlog at the end of 2014.
New Awards
2014 - The estimated value of contract awards recorded during 2014 was $25.0 billion. Significant new awards during 2014 include $4.1 billion for the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye program, $1.4 billion for the Global Hawk program, $1.3 billion for the program, $727 million for the B-2 program and $560 million for the Virginia Class Submarine program.
2013 - The estimated value of contract awards recorded during 2013 was $21.9 billion. On a net basis, awards during 2013 totaled $20.9 billion, reflecting $1 billion of adjustments during the first half of the year to reduce Information Systems unfunded backlog principally associated with expired periods of performance on active contracts, including several previously awarded task orders on IDIQ contracts. Significant new awards in 2013 include $2.2 billion for the program, $1.3 billion for the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye program, $866 million for the AEHF program, $694 million for the B-2 program, and $632 million for the Triton program.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
We endeavor to ensure the most efficient conversion of operating income into cash for deployment in our business and to maximize shareholder value. In addition to our cash position, we use various financial measures to assist in capital deployment decision-making, including cash provided by operating activities, free cash flow, net debt-to-equity and net debt-to-capital. We believe these measures are useful to investors in assessing our financial performance and condition.
During the second quarter of 2013, the company's board of directors authorized a new share repurchase program of up to $4.0 billion of the company’s common stock ("2013 Repurchase Program"). At the same time, the company announced its plan to repurchase shares with the goal of retiring approximately 25 percent of its then outstanding shares (60 million shares) by the end of 2015, market conditions permitting. As of December 31, 2014, we had repurchased 42.2 million shares towards that goal. Additionally, during the fourth quarter of 2014, the company's
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
board of directors authorized a new share repurchase program of up to an additional $3.0 billion of the company’s common stock ("2014 Repurchase Program"). By its terms, repurchases under the 2014 Repurchase Program will commence upon completion of the 2013 Repurchase Program.
Cash balances and cash generated from operating activities, supplemented by borrowings under credit facilities and/or in the capital markets, if needed, are expected to be sufficient to fund our operations for at least the next 12 months. As of December 31, 2014, the amount of cash, cash equivalents and marketable securities held outside of the U.S. by foreign subsidiaries was $537 million. We currently do not anticipate repatriating these balances to fund domestic operations. Capital expenditure commitments were $533 million at December 31, 2014, and are expected to be paid with cash on hand.
The table below summarizes the key components of cash flow provided by operating activities:
(1)
Includes depreciation and amortization, stock based compensation expense and deferred income taxes
Free Cash Flow
Free cash flow is defined as cash provided by operating activities less capital expenditures. We believe free cash flow is a useful measure for investors to consider as it represents the cash flow the company has available after capital spending to invest for future growth, strengthen the balance sheet and/or return to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases. Free cash flow is a key factor in our planning for and consideration of strategic acquisitions, the payment of dividends and stock repurchases.
Free cash flow is not a measure of financial performance under GAAP, and may not be defined and calculated by other companies in the same manner. This measure 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 as indicators of performance.
The table below reconciles cash provided by operating activities to free cash flow:
2014 - Free cash flow for 2014 decreased $87 million, or 4 percent as compared with 2013. The decrease was principally driven by higher capital expenditures due to a ramp up of investments in our Aerospace Systems' Centers of Excellence, partially offset by an increase in net cash provided by operating activities, as described in the Consolidated Operating Results Section above. We currently expect capital expenditures to continue to increase in 2015.
2013 - Free cash flow for 2013 decreased $190 million, or 8 percent, as compared with 2012. The decrease was principally driven by higher voluntary pension contributions in 2013. We contributed $579 million to our pension plans during 2013 as compared with $367 million in 2012.
Credit Facilities
The company maintains an unsecured credit facility in an aggregate principal amount of $1.775 billion (the Credit Agreement). The Credit Agreement contains customary terms and conditions, including covenants restricting the company's ability to sell all or substantially all of its assets, merge or consolidate with another entity or undertake
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other fundamental changes and incur liens. The company also cannot permit the ratio of its debt to capitalization (as set forth in the Credit Agreement) to exceed 65 percent. At December 31, 2014, the company was in compliance with all covenants under the Credit Agreement and there was no balance outstanding under this facility.
Other Sources and Uses of Capital
Additional Capital - We believe we can obtain additional capital, if necessary for long-term liquidity, from such sources as the public or private capital markets, the sale of assets, sale and leaseback of operating assets, and leasing rather than purchasing new assets. We have an effective shelf registration statement on file with the SEC, which allows us to access capital in a timely manner.
Financial Arrangements - See Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8.
Contractual Obligations
The following table presents our contractual obligations as of December 31, 2014, and the estimated timing of future cash payments:
(1)
A “purchase obligation” is defined as an agreement to purchase goods or services that is enforceable and legally binding on us and that specifies all significant terms, including: fixed or minimum quantities to be purchased; fixed, minimum, or variable price provisions; and the approximate timing of the transaction. These amounts are primarily comprised of open purchase order commitments to suppliers and subcontractors pertaining to funded contracts.
(2)
Other long-term liabilities, including their current portions, primarily consist of total accrued environmental reserves, deferred compensation and other miscellaneous liabilities, of which $142 million is related to environmental reserves recorded in other current liabilities. It excludes obligations for uncertain tax positions of $235 million, as the timing of such payments, if any, cannot be reasonably estimated.
The table above also excludes estimated minimum funding requirements for retirement and other post-retirement benefit plans, as set forth by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act, as amended (ERISA). For further information about future minimum contributions for these plans, see Note 12 to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8. Further details regarding long-term debt and operating leases can be found in Notes 9 and 11, respectively, to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES, ESTIMATES, AND JUDGMENTS
Our consolidated financial statements are based on the application of U.S. GAAP, which require us to make estimates and assumptions about future events that affect the amounts reported in our consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes. We employ judgment in making our estimates in consideration of historical experience, currently available information and various other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ from our estimates and assumptions, and any such differences could be material to our consolidated financial statements. We believe the following accounting policies are critical to the understanding of our consolidated financial statements and require the use of significant management judgment in their application. For a summary of our significant accounting policies, see Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, Part II, Item 8.
Revenue Recognition
Due to the long-term nature of our contracts, we generally recognize revenue using the percentage-of-completion method of accounting as work on our contracts progresses, which requires us to make reasonably dependable estimates for the design, manufacture and delivery of our products and services. In accounting for these contracts, we utilize either the cost-to-cost or the units-of-delivery method of percentage-of-completion accounting, with cost-to-cost being the predominant method.
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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, claims and requests for equitable adjustment. Amounts pertaining to cost and/or performance incentives are included in estimated contract sales when they are reasonably estimable.
Our cost estimation process is based on the professional knowledge of our engineers, program managers and financial professionals, and draws on their significant experience and judgment. We prepare estimates-at-completion (EACs) for our contracts which include an estimated contract operating margin based initially on estimated contract sales and cost. Since contract costs are typically incurred over a period of several years, estimation of these costs requires the use of judgment. Factors considered in estimating the cost of the work to be completed include the availability, productivity and cost of labor, the nature and complexity of work to be performed, the effect of change orders, availability and cost of materials, the effect of any delays in performance and the level of indirect cost allocations.
We generally review and reassess our sales, cost and profit estimates for each significant contract at least annually or more frequently as determined by the occurrence of events, changes in circumstances and evaluations of contract performance to reflect the latest reliable information available. Changes in estimates of contract sales and cost are frequent. The company performs on a broad portfolio of long-term contracts, including the development of complex and customized military platforms and systems, as well as advanced electronic equipment and software, that often include technology at the forefront of science. Changes in estimates occur for a variety of reasons, including changes in contract scope, the resolution of risk at lower or higher cost than anticipated, unanticipated risks affecting contract costs, availability, performance or other issues with our subcontractors or suppliers, changes in indirect cost allocations, such as overhead and general and administrative expenses, and changes in estimated award and incentive fees. EACs are also adjusted to reflect estimated risks related to contract performance. These risks typically include technical, schedule and performance risk based on our evaluation of the contract effort. Similarly, the changes in estimates may include identified opportunities for operating margin improvement.
For the impacts of changes in estimates on our consolidated statement of earnings and comprehensive (loss) income, see the Consolidating Operating Results section above and Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8.
Goodwill
Overview - We allocate the purchase price of acquired businesses to the underlying tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based upon their respective fair values, with the excess recorded as goodwill. Such fair value assessments require judgments and estimates that can be affected by contract performance and other factors over time, which may cause final amounts to differ materially from original estimates. Adjustments to the fair value of purchased assets and liabilities after the initial measurement period are recognized in net earnings.
Impairment Testing - We test for impairment of goodwill annually at each of our reporting units, which comprise our operating segments. The results of our annual goodwill impairment test as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, indicated that the estimated fair value of each reporting unit substantially exceeded its respective carrying value. There were no impairment charges recorded in the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012.
In addition to performing an annual goodwill impairment test, an interim impairment test may be required if events occur or circumstances change that suggest goodwill of our reporting units may be impaired during an interim period. Such indicators may include, but are not limited to, the loss of significant business, significant reductions in federal government appropriations or other significant adverse changes in industry or market conditions.
When testing goodwill for impairment, we compare the fair values of each of our reporting units to their respective carrying values. To determine the fair value of our reporting units, we primarily use the income approach based on the cash flows that the reporting unit expects to generate in the future, consistent with our operating plans. This income valuation method requires management to project sales, operating expenses, working capital, capital spending and cash flows for the reporting units over a multi-year period, as well as determine the weighted-average cost of capital (WACC) used as a discount rate and terminal value assumptions.
The WACC takes into account the relative weights of each component of our consolidated capital structure (equity and debt) and represents the expected cost of new capital adjusted as appropriate to consider lower risk profiles associated with longer-term contracts and barriers to market entry. The terminal value assumptions are applied to the final year of the discounted cash flow model. Impairment assessment inherently involves management judgments as to assumptions about expected future cash flows and the impact of market conditions on those assumptions. Due to
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the many variables inherent in the estimation of a business’ fair value and the relative size of our recorded goodwill, differences in assumptions may have a material effect on the results of our impairment analysis.
We corroborate the fair values determined under the income approach using the market valuation method to estimate the fair value of our reporting units, by utilizing industry multiples (including relevant control premiums) of operating earnings.
Retirement Benefits
Overview - The determination of projected benefit obligations and the fair value of plan assets for our pension and other post-retirement plans requires the use of several actuarial assumptions. We perform an annual review of these assumptions in consultation with our outside actuaries. In the event we determine changes in the assumptions are warranted, or as a result of plan amendments, future pension and other post-retirement benefit expense could increase or decrease. The principal assumptions that have a significant effect on our consolidated financial position and annual results of operations are the discount rate, cash balance crediting rate, expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, estimated fair market value of plan assets, and life expectancy for those covered by our pension and other post-retirement benefit plans.
Discount Rate - The discount rate represents the interest rate that is used to determine the present value of future cash flows currently expected to be required to settle our pension and other post-retirement benefit obligations. The discount rate is generally based on the yield of high-quality corporate fixed-income investments. At the end of each year, the discount rate is determined using a portfolio of bonds matching the notional cash outflows related to benefit payments for each significant benefit plan. Taking into consideration the factors noted above, our weighted-average pension composite discount rate was 4.12 percent at December 31, 2014, and 4.99 percent at December 31, 2013.
The effects of a hypothetical change in the discount rate may be nonlinear and asymmetrical for future years as the discount rate changes and the accounting corridor is applied. The accounting corridor is a defined range within which amortization of net gains and losses is not required and is equal to 10 percent of the greater of plan assets or benefit obligations. Holding all other assumptions constant, an increase or decrease of 25 basis points in the December 31, 2014, discount rate assumption would have the following estimated effects on 2014 pension and other post-retirement benefit obligations and 2015 expected pension and other post-retirement expense:
Cash Balance Crediting Rate - A portion of the company’s pension obligation and resulting pension expense is based on a cash balance formula, where participants’ hypothetical account balances are accumulated over time with pay-based credits and interest. Interest is credited monthly using the 30-Year Treasury bond rate. The interest crediting rate is part of the cash balance formula and independent of actual pension investment earnings. The cash balance crediting rate tends to move in concert with the discount rate but has an offsetting effect on pension benefit obligations and pension expense in comparison to the discount rate. Although current 30-Year Treasury bond rates are near historically low levels, we expect such bond rates to rise in the future. The cash balance crediting rate assumption has been set to its current level of 2.75 percent as of December 31, 2014, growing to 3.5 percent by 2020. Holding all other assumptions constant, an increase or decrease of 25 basis points in the December 31, 2014, cash balance crediting rate assumption would have the following estimated effects on 2014 pension benefit obligations and 2015 expected pension expense:
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Expected Long-Term Rate of Return on Plan Assets - The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets represents the average rate of earnings expected on funds invested. Through consultation with our investment management team and outside investment advisers, management develops expected long-term returns for each of the plans’ strategic asset classes. In addition to our historical investment performance, we consider several factors, including current market data such as yields/price-earnings ratios, historical market returns over long periods and periodic surveys of investment managers’ expectations. Using policy target allocation percentages and the asset class expected returns, a weighted-average expected return is calculated.
The assumptions used for pension benefits are consistent with those used for other post-retirement benefits. The long-term rate of return on plan assets used for medical and life benefits is reduced to allow for the impact of tax on expected returns as the earnings of certain Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA) trusts are taxable, unlike the pension trust.
For 2014 and 2013, we assumed an expected long-term rate of return on pension plan assets of 8.0 percent, and assumed an expected long-term rate of return on other post-retirement benefit plan assets of 7.45 percent and 7.33 percent, respectively. For 2015, we have assumed an expected long-term rate of return on plan assets of 8.0 percent on pension plans and 7.58 percent on other post-retirement benefit plans. Holding all other assumptions constant, an increase or decrease of 25 basis points in the December 31, 2014, expected long-term rate of return on plan asset assumption would have the following estimated effects on 2015 pension and other post-retirement benefit expense:
Estimated Fair Market Value of Plan Assets - For certain plan assets where the fair market value is not readily determinable, such as real estate, private equity and hedge funds, estimates of fair value are determined using the best information available. Estimated fair values on these plan assets are based on redemption values and net asset values, as well as valuation methodologies that include third party appraisals, comparable transactions, discounted cash flow valuation models and public market data.
Mortality Rate - Mortality assumptions are used to estimate life expectancies of plan participants. In October 2014, the Society of Actuaries (SOA) issued updated mortality tables (RP-2014) and a mortality improvement scale (MP-2014), which reflect longer life expectancies than previously projected. In consideration of this information, we studied our historical mortality experience and developed an expectation for continued future mortality improvements. Based on this data and the RP-2014 tables, we updated the mortality assumptions used in calculating our pension and post-retirement benefit obligations recognized at December 31, 2014, and the amounts estimated for our 2015 pension and post-retirement benefit expense. Our updated mortality assumptions resulted in an increase of $1.8 billion in our pension and post-retirement benefit obligations as of December 31, 2014.
For further information regarding our pension and post-retirement benefits, see Risk Factors in Part I, Item 1A and Note 12 to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8.
Litigation, Commitments and Contingencies
We are subject to a range of claims, investigations, lawsuits, overhead cost claims, environmental matters, income tax matters and administrative proceedings that arise in the ordinary course of business. Estimating liabilities and costs associated with these matters requires judgment based upon the professional knowledge and experience of management and counsel. We determine whether to record a charge to earnings and, if so, what amount based on consideration of the facts and circumstances of each matter as then known to us. Determinations regarding whether to record a charge and, if so, of what amount, reflect management's assessment regarding what is likely to occur; they do not necessarily reflect what management believes should occur. The ultimate resolution of any such exposure to us may vary materially from earlier estimates as further facts and circumstances develop or become known to us.
Environmental Matters - We are subject to environmental laws and regulations in the jurisdictions in which we conduct operations. Factors that could result in changes to the assessment of probability, range of estimated costs and environmental accruals include: modification of planned remedial actions, increase or decrease in the estimated time required to remediate, discovery of more or less extensive contamination than anticipated, results of efforts to involve other responsible parties, financial capabilities of other responsible parties, changes in laws and regulations
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or contractual obligations affecting remediation requirements or other obligations, and improvements in remediation technology.
For further information on litigation, commitments and contingencies, see Risk Factors in Part I, Item 1A, and Note 1, Note 10 and Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8.
OTHER MATTERS
Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
As of December 31, 2014, we had no significant off-balance sheet arrangements other than operating leases. For a description of our operating leases, see Note 11 to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8.
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Item 7A.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
EQUITY RISK
We are exposed to market risk with respect to our portfolio of trading and available-for-sale marketable securities with a fair value of $336 million at December 31, 2014. These securities are exposed to market volatilities, changes in price and interest rates.
INTEREST RATE RISK
We are exposed to interest rate risk on variable-rate short-term credit facilities for which there were no borrowings outstanding at December 31, 2014. At December 31, 2014, we have $5.9 billion of long-term debt, primarily consisting of fixed-rate debt, with a fair value of approximately $6.7 billion. The terms of our fixed-rate debt obligations do not generally allow investors to demand payment of these obligations prior to maturity. Therefore, we do not have significant exposure to interest rate risk for our fixed-rate debt; however, we do have exposure to fair value risk if we repurchase or exchange long-term debt prior to maturity.
FOREIGN CURRENCY RISK
We are exposed to foreign currency risk with respect to our international operations. We enter into foreign currency forward contracts to manage a portion of the exchange rate risk related to receipts from customers and payments to suppliers denominated in foreign currencies. We do not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. At December 31, 2014, foreign currency forward contracts with a notional amount of $139 million were outstanding. At December 31, 2014, a 10 percent unfavorable foreign exchange rate movement would not have a material impact on our foreign currency forward contracts.
INFLATION RISK
We have generally been able to anticipate increases in costs when pricing our contracts. Bids for longer-term firm fixed-price contracts typically include assumptions for labor and other cost escalations in amounts that historically have been sufficient to cover cost increases over the period of performance.
Item 8.
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
Northrop Grumman Corporation
Falls Church, Virginia
We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position of Northrop Grumman Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the related consolidated statements of earnings and comprehensive (loss) income, changes in shareholders’ equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Northrop Grumman Corporation and subsidiaries at December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated February 2, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS AND COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS) INCOME
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
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NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
Nature of Operations
Northrop Grumman Corporation (herein referred to as “Northrop Grumman,” the “company,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) is a leading global security company. We provide innovative products, systems and solutions in unmanned systems; cyber; command, control, communications and computers (C4), intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR); strike aircraft; and logistics and modernization to government and commercial customers worldwide through our four segments: Aerospace Systems, Electronic Systems, Information Systems and Technical Services. We participate in many high-priority defense and government services programs in the United States (U.S.) and abroad. We offer a broad portfolio of capabilities and technologies that enable us to deliver innovative systems and solutions for applications that range from undersea to outer space and into cyberspace. 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 domestic and international commercial customers.
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Northrop Grumman and its subsidiaries. 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.
Accounting Estimates
The company’s 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 revenues 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.
Related Party Transactions
For all periods presented, the company had no material related party transactions.
Revenue Recognition
The majority of our business results are derived from long-term contracts with the 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 or the units-of-delivery method of percentage-of-completion accounting, with cost-to-cost being the predominant method. Generally, sales under cost-reimbursement contracts and construction-type contracts that provide for deliveries at lower volume rates per year or a small number of units are accounted for using the cost-to-cost method. Under this method, sales, including estimated profits, are recorded as costs are incurred. Generally, sales under contracts that provide for deliveries at higher volume rates per year or a large number of units are accounted for using the units-of-delivery method. Under this method, sales are recognized as units are delivered to the customer. The company estimates profit on contracts as the difference between total estimated sales and total estimated cost of a contract 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.
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, claims and requests for equitable adjustment. Amounts pertaining to cost and/or performance incentives are included in estimated contract sales when they are reasonably estimable. 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 are included in estimated contract sales when they are probable of recovery in an amount at least equal to the cost. Amounts representing claims (including change orders unapproved as to both scope and price) and requests for equitable adjustment are included in estimated contract sales when they are reliably estimable and realization is probable. As of December 31, 2014, the recognized amounts related to claims and requests for equitable adjustment are not material individually or in the aggregate.
The company's U.S. Government contracts generally contain provisions that enable the customer to terminate a contract for default, or for the convenience of the government. If a contract is terminated for default, we may not be
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
entitled to recover any of our costs on partially completed work and may be liable to the government for re-procurement costs of acquiring similar products or services from another contractor, and for certain other damages. Termination of a contract for the convenience of the government may occur when the government concludes it is in the best interests of the government that the contract be terminated. Under a termination for convenience, the contractor is typically entitled to be paid in accordance with the contract’s terms for costs incurred prior to the effective date of termination, plus a reasonable profit and settlement expenses. At December 31, 2014, the company does not have any contract terminations in process that we anticipate would have a material effect on our consolidated financial position, annual results of operations and/or cash flows.
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; 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 any costs that are included in unbilled accounts receivable or inventoried costs, and any remaining amount is reflected in liabilities.
Significant changes in estimates on a single contract could have a material effect on the company's consolidated financial position or annual results of operations. Where such changes occur, we generally disclose the nature, underlying conditions and financial impact of the change. Aggregate net changes in contract estimates recognized using the cumulative catch-up method of accounting increased operating margin by $664 million, $753 million and $985 million ($2.04, $2.09 and $2.53 per diluted share based on statutory tax rates) in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. No discrete event or adjustments to an individual contract were material to the consolidated statements of earnings and comprehensive (loss) income for any of these periods.
General and Administrative Expenses
In accordance with industry practice and regulations that govern the cost accounting requirements for government contracts, most general and administrative expenses incurred at the segments and corporate office are considered allowable and allocable costs on government contracts. These costs are allocated to contracts in progress on a systematic basis and are included as a component of total estimated contract costs, including any provision for loss contracts.
Research and Development
Company-sponsored research and development activities primarily include independent research and development (IR&D) efforts related to government programs. Company-sponsored IR&D expenses are included in general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of earnings and comprehensive (loss) income and are generally allocated to government contracts. Company-sponsored IR&D expenses totaled $569 million, $507 million and $520 million, in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Expenses for research and development funded by the customer are charged directly to the related contracts.
Environmental Costs
Environmental liabilities are accrued when the company determines that, based on the facts and circumstances known to the company, it is probable the company will incur costs to address environmental impacts and the costs are reasonably estimable. When only a range of amounts is established and no amount within the range is more probable than another, the low end of the range is recorded. The company typically projects environmental costs for up to 30 years, records environmental liabilities on an undiscounted basis, and excludes legal costs or asset retirement obligations. At sites involving multiple parties, the company accrues environmental liabilities based upon our expected share of liability, taking into account the financial viability of other jointly liable parties. Environmental expenditures are capitalized or expensed, as appropriate. As a portion of environmental remediation costs is expected to be recoverable through overhead charges on government contracts, such amounts are deferred in inventoried costs (current portion) and other non-current assets. The portion of environmental expenditures not expected to be recoverable is expensed.
Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The company utilizes fair value measurement guidance prescribed by GAAP to value its financial instruments. The guidance includes a definition of fair value, prescribes methods for measuring fair value, establishes a fair value hierarchy based on the inputs used to measure fair value and expands disclosures about the use of fair value measurements.
The valuation techniques utilized are based upon observable and unobservable inputs. Observable inputs reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while unobservable inputs reflect internal market assumptions.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
These two types of inputs create the following fair value hierarchy:
Level 1 - Quoted prices for identical instruments in active markets.
Level 2 - Quoted prices for similar instruments in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable or whose significant value drivers are observable.
Level 3 - Significant inputs to the valuation model are unobservable.
Marketable securities accounted for as trading and available-for-sale are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis. For available-for-sale securities, any changes in unrealized gains and losses are reported as a component of other comprehensive income. Changes in unrealized gains and losses on trading securities are included in other, net in the consolidated statements of earnings and comprehensive (loss) income. In addition, investments in held-to-maturity instruments with original maturities greater than three months are recorded at amortized cost.
Derivative financial instruments are recognized as assets or liabilities in the financial statements and measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments that are designated as fair value hedges are recorded in net earnings, while the effective portion of the changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments that are designated as cash flow hedges are recorded as a component of other comprehensive income. For derivative financial instruments not designated as hedging instruments, gains or losses resulting from changes in the fair value are reported in other, net in the consolidated statements of earnings and comprehensive (loss) income.
The company may use derivative financial instruments to manage its exposure to interest rate risk for its fixed long-term debt portfolio and foreign currency exchange risk related to receipts from customers and payments to suppliers denominated in foreign currencies. The company does not use derivative financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes, nor does it use leveraged financial instruments. Credit risk related to derivative financial instruments is considered minimal and is managed through the use of multiple counterparties with high credit standards and periodic settlements of positions, as well as by entering into master netting agreements with most of our counterparties.
Income Taxes
Provisions for federal and foreign income taxes are calculated on reported earnings before income taxes based on current tax law and include the cumulative effect of any changes in tax rates from those used previously in determining deferred tax assets and liabilities. Such provisions differ from the amounts currently payable because certain items of income and expense are recognized in different periods for financial reporting purposes than for income tax purposes. The company recognizes federal and foreign interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. Federal penalties are recognized as a component of income tax expense. In accordance with industry practice and regulations that govern the cost accounting requirements for government contracts, state and local income and franchise taxes are considered allowable and allocable costs on government contracts and are therefore recorded in operating costs and expenses. The company recognizes state interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in unallowable operating costs and expenses.
Uncertain tax positions reflect the company’s expected treatment of tax positions taken in a filed tax return, or planned to be taken in a future tax return or claim, which have not been reflected in measuring income tax expense for financial reporting purposes. Until these positions are sustained by the taxing authorities or the statute of limitations concerning such issues lapses, the company does not recognize the tax benefits resulting from such positions and reports the tax effects as a liability for uncertain tax positions in its consolidated statements of financial position.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents are comprised of cash in banks and highly liquid instruments with original maturities of three months or less, primarily consisting of bank time deposits and investments in institutional money market funds. The company does not invest in high yield or high risk securities. Cash in bank accounts at times may exceed federally insured limits.
Accounts Receivable and Inventoried Costs
Accounts receivable include amounts billed and currently due from customers, as well as amounts currently due but unbilled (primarily related to costs incurred on contracts accounted for under the cost-to-cost method of percentage-of-completion accounting). Accounts receivable also include certain estimated contract change amounts, claims or requests for equitable adjustment in negotiation that are probable of recovery and amounts retained by the customer pending contract completion.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Inventoried costs primarily relate to work in process on contracts accounted for under the units-of-delivery method of percentage-of-completion accounting. These costs represent accumulated contract costs less the portion of such costs allocated to delivered items. Product inventory primarily consists of raw materials and is stated at the lower of cost or market, generally using the average cost method.
Accumulated contract costs in unbilled accounts receivable and inventoried costs include direct production costs, factory and engineering overhead, production tooling costs, and, for government contracts, allowable general and administrative expenses. According to the provisions of U.S. Government contracts, the customer asserts title to, or a security interest in, inventories related to such contracts as a result of contract advances, performance-based payments, and progress payments. In accordance with industry practice, unbilled accounts receivable and inventoried costs are classified as current assets and include amounts related to contracts having production cycles longer than one year. Payments received in excess of inventoried costs and unbilled accounts receivable amounts on a contract by contract basis are recorded as advance payments and amounts in excess of costs incurred in the consolidated statements of financial position.
Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment are depreciated over the estimated useful lives of individual assets. Most of these assets are depreciated using declining-balance methods, with the remainder using the straight-line method. Major classes of property, plant and equipment and their useful lives are as follows:
(1)
Land is not a depreciable asset. Leasehold improvements are depreciated over the shorter of the useful life of the asset or the length of the lease.
Leases
The company uses its incremental borrowing rate in the assessment of lease classification as capital or operating and defines the initial lease term to include renewal options determined to be reasonably assured. The majority of our leases are operating leases.
Many of the company’s real property lease agreements contain incentives for tenant improvements, rent holidays, or rent escalation clauses. For tenant improvement incentives, the company records a deferred rent liability and amortizes the deferred rent over the term of the lease as a reduction to rent expense. For rent holidays and rent escalation clauses during the lease term, the company records rental expenses on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. For purposes of recognizing lease incentives, the company uses the date of initial possession as the commencement date, which is generally when the company is given the right of access to the space and begins to make improvements in preparation of intended use.
Goodwill and Other Purchased Intangible Assets
The company tests for impairment of goodwill annually as of December 31, or when we believe a potential impairment exists. When performing the goodwill impairment test, the company uses a discounted cash flow approach corroborated by comparative market multiples, where appropriate, to determine the fair value of its businesses. Goodwill and other purchased intangible asset balances are included in the identifiable assets of their assigned business segment. The company charges goodwill impairment, as well as the amortization of other purchased intangible assets, against the respective segment’s operating income. Purchased intangible assets are amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Cash Surrender Value of Life Insurance Policies
The company maintains whole life insurance policies on a group of executives, which are recorded at their cash surrender value as determined by the insurance carrier. The company also has split-dollar life insurance policies on former officers and executives from acquired businesses, which are recorded at the lesser of their cash surrender value or premiums paid. These policies are utilized as a partial funding source for deferred compensation and other non-qualified employee retirement plans. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the carrying values associated with these policies are $290 million and $287 million, respectively, and are recorded in other non-current assets in the consolidated statements of financial position.
Litigation, Commitments and Contingencies
Amounts associated with litigation, commitments and contingencies are recorded as charges to earnings when management, after considering the facts and circumstances of each matter as then known to management, has determined it is probable a liability will be found to have been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. When only a range of amounts is established and no amount within the range is more likely than another, the low end of the range is recorded. Legal fees are expensed as incurred. Due to the inherent uncertainties surrounding gain contingencies, we generally do not recognize potential gains until realized.
Retirement Benefits
The company sponsors various defined benefit pension plans and defined contribution retirement plans covering substantially all of its employees. The company also provides post-retirement benefits other than pensions, consisting principally of health care and life insurance benefits, to eligible retirees and qualifying dependents. In most cases, our defined contribution plans provide for a cash matching of employee contributions up to four percent of compensation.
The liabilities, unamortized benefit plan costs and annual income or expense of the company’s defined benefit pension and other post-retirement benefit plans are determined using methodologies that involve several actuarial assumptions. Unamortized benefit plan costs consist primarily of accumulated net after-tax actuarial losses.
Because U.S. Government regulations require that the costs of pension and other post-retirement plans be 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, we calculate retiree benefit plan costs under both CAS and FAS (GAAP Financial Accounting Standards) methods. While both FAS and CAS recognize a normal service cost component in measuring periodic pension cost, there are differences in the way the remaining components of annual pension costs are calculated under each method. Measuring plan obligations under FAS and CAS includes different assumptions and models, such as in estimating earnings on plan assets and calculating interest expense. In addition, the periods over which gains/losses related to pension assets and actuarial changes are amortized are different under FAS and CAS. As a result, annual retiree benefit plan expense amounts for FAS are different from the amounts for CAS even though the ultimate cost of providing benefits is the same under either method. CAS retiree benefit plan costs are charged to contracts and are included in segment operating income, and the difference between CAS and FAS expense is recorded in operating income at the consolidated company level.
Net actuarial gains or losses are amortized to expense on a plan-by-plan basis when they exceed the accounting corridor. The accounting corridor is a defined range within which amortization of net gains and losses is not required and is equal to 10 percent of the greater of plan assets or benefit obligations. Gains or losses outside of the corridor are subject to amortization over our average employee future service period of approximately nine years. Not all net periodic pension expense is recognized in net earnings in the year incurred because it is allocated as production costs and a portion remains in inventory at the end of a reporting period. The company’s funding policy for the qualified pension plans is to contribute, at a minimum, the statutorily required amount to an irrevocable trust.
Stock Compensation
The company’s stock compensation plans are classified as equity plans and compensation expense is recognized over the vesting period (generally three years), net of estimated forfeitures. The company issues stock awards in the form of restricted performance stock rights and restricted stock rights under its existing plans. The fair value of stock awards is determined based on the closing market price of the company’s common stock on the grant date. At each reporting date, the number of shares is adjusted to equal the number ultimately expected to vest.
Accounting Standards Updates
On May 28, 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers. ASU 2014-09 supersedes existing revenue recognition guidance, including Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) No. 605-35, Revenue Recognition - Construction-Type and Production-Type Contracts. ASU 2014-09 outlines a single set of comprehensive principles for
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
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. ASU 2014-09 will be effective January 1, 2017, and may be applied either retrospectively or through the use of a modified-retrospective method. We are currently evaluating both methods of adoption as well as the effect ASU 2014-09 will have on the company’s consolidated financial position, annual results of operations and/or cash flows.
Other accounting standards updates effective after December 31, 2014, are not expected to have a material effect on the company’s financial position, annual results of operations and/or cash flows.
Reclassifications
Our consolidated statements of cash flows for 2014 and 2013 reflect cash flows from operating activities presented solely on the indirect method. The company previously presented both the direct method and indirect method for our cash flows from operating activities. This change in reporting method had no effect on the amount of our net cash flows from operating activities.
In the first quarter of 2014, we reclassified our cash awards incentive compensation accrual from other current liabilities to accrued employee compensation, which are both reported within current liabilities on the consolidated statement of financial position. The reclassification reduced other current liabilities and increased accrued employee compensation by $226 million and $277 million, as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Shareholders' Equity
The company records the difference between the cost of shares repurchased and their par value as a reduction of paid-in capital to the extent of its balance and then as a reduction of retained earnings.
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss are as follows:
Unamortized benefit plan costs consist primarily of net after-tax actuarial losses totaling $5.6 billion and $3.3 billion as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Net actuarial gains or losses are re-determined annually or upon remeasurement events and principally arise from changes in the rate used to discount our benefit obligations and differences between expected and actual returns on plan assets.
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income to net earnings related to the amortization of benefit plan costs were $145 million, $319 million and $204 million, net of taxes, for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, 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 12 for further information).
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income to net earnings, relating to cumulative translation adjustments, marketable securities and effective cash flow hedges for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, were not material. Reclassifications for cumulative translation adjustments and marketable securities are recorded in other income, and reclassifications for effective cash flow hedges are recorded in operating income.
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.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
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 3.3 million, 4.3 million and 4.8 million shares for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. We had no anti-dilutive stock options outstanding for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The weighted-average diluted shares outstanding for the year ended December 31, 2012, excludes stock options to purchase 1.8 million shares because such options had exercise prices in excess of the average market price of the company’s common stock during the year.
Share Repurchases
The table below summarizes the company’s share repurchases:
(1)
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. As of December 31, 2014, repurchases under the 2013 Repurchase Program totaled $3.6 billion; $447 million remained under this share repurchase authorization. By its terms, the 2013 Repurchase Program will expire when we have used all authorized funds for repurchases.
(2)
On December 4, 2014, the company's board of directors authorized a new share repurchase program of up to an additional $3.0 billion of the company's common stock ("2014 Repurchase Program"). By its terms, repurchases under the 2014 Repurchase Program will commence upon completion of the 2013 Repurchase Program and will expire when we have used all authorized funds for repurchases.
(3)
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 has not made any purchases of common stock other than in connection with these publicly announced repurchase programs.
Dividends on Common Stock
In May 2014, the company increased the quarterly common stock dividend 15 percent to $0.70 per share from the previous amount of $0.61 per share.
In May 2013, the company increased the quarterly common stock dividend 11 percent to $0.61 per share from the previous amount of $0.55 per share.
In May 2012, the company increased the quarterly common stock dividend 10 percent to $0.55 per share from the previous amount of $0.50 per share.
3. SEGMENT INFORMATION
The company is aligned into four segments: Aerospace Systems, Electronic Systems, Information Systems and Technical Services. The company, from time to time, acquires or disposes of businesses and realigns contracts, programs or business areas among and within our segments. Portfolio shaping and internal realignments are designed to more fully leverage existing capabilities and enhance development and delivery of products and services.
U.S. Government Sales
Sales to the U.S. Government include sales from contracts for which Northrop Grumman is the prime contractor, as well as those for which the company is a subcontractor and the ultimate customer is the U.S. Government. Each of the company’s segments derives substantial revenue from the U.S. Government. Sales to the U.S. Government amounted to
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
$20.1 billion, $21.3 billion and $22.3 billion, or 84 percent, 86 percent and 88 percent, of total sales for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
International Sales
International sales (which include foreign military sales) amounted to $3.0 billion, $2.5 billion and $2.1 billion, or 13 percent, 10 percent and 8 percent, of total sales for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Assets
Substantially all of the company’s operating assets are located or maintained in the U.S.
Results of Operations By Segment
The following table presents sales and operating income by segment:
Net FAS/CAS Pension Adjustment
The net FAS/CAS pension adjustment reflects the difference between pension expense charged to contracts and included as cost in segment operating income and pension expense determined in accordance with GAAP.
2014 - The increase in net FAS/CAS pension adjustment is principally due to a reduction in FAS expense, largely due to the increase in our FAS discount rate assumptions as of December 31, 2013. The reduction in FAS expense was partially offset by lower CAS expense due to the passage of the Highway and Transportation Funding Act of 2014 (HATFA), which included provisions that reduce the amount of CAS expense charged to our contracts in 2014.
2013 - The increase in net FAS/CAS pension adjustment reflects an update for actual demographic experience as of January 1, 2013, which resulted in an increase to the company's 2013 CAS expense.
Unallocated Corporate Expenses
Unallocated corporate expenses include the portion of corporate expenses not considered allowable or allocable under applicable CAS regulations and the FAR, and are therefore not allocated to the segments. Such costs consist of a portion of management and administration, legal, environmental, compensation costs, retiree benefits, and certain unallowable costs such as lobbying activities, among others.
2014 - The increase in unallocated corporate expense for 2014, as compared to 2013, is primarily due to increases in year-over-year provisions for environmental matters.
2013 - The decrease in unallocated corporate expenses for 2013, as compared to 2012, is primarily due to lower year-over-year provisions for disallowed costs and litigation matters and the favorable settlement of overhead claims, partially offset by changes in deferred tax assets due to lower blended state income tax rates.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Intersegment Sales and Operating Income
Sales between segments are recorded at values that include hypothetical operating income for the performing segment based on that segment’s estimated operating margin rate for external sales. Such hypothetical operating income is eliminated in consolidation. Intersegment sales and operating income before eliminations were as follows:
Other Financial Information
The following tables represent assets, capital expenditures and depreciation and amortization by segment:
(1)
Corporate assets principally consist of cash and cash equivalents and deferred tax assets.
(1)
Depreciation and amortization expense includes amortization of purchased intangible assets, as well as amortization of deferred and other outsourcing costs.
4. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE, NET
Unbilled amounts represent sales for which billings have not been presented to customers by period-end. These amounts are usually billed and collected within one year. Substantially all accounts receivable at December 31, 2014, are expected to be collected in 2015. The company does not believe it has significant exposure to credit risk, as accounts receivable and the related unbilled amounts are primarily from contracts where the U.S. Government is the primary customer.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Accounts receivable consisted of the following:
(1) Includes receivables due from the U.S. Government associated with foreign military sales.
5. INVENTORIED COSTS, NET
Inventoried costs consisted of the following:
6. INCOME TAXES
Federal and foreign income tax expense consisted of the following:
Earnings from foreign operations before income taxes are not material for all periods presented.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Income tax expense differs from the amount computed by multiplying the statutory federal income tax rate times earnings before income taxes due to the following:
2014 - The effective tax rate for 2014 was 29.6 percent, as compared with 31.8 percent in 2013. The company's lower effective tax rate for 2014 reflects a $51 million benefit for the partial resolution of its 2007-2009 Internal Revenue Service (IRS) examination.
2013 - The effective tax rate for 2013 was 31.8 percent, as compared with 33.3 percent in 2012. The company's lower effective tax rate for 2013 includes a $37 million benefit for the American Taxpayer Relief Act, enacted in January 2013, which reinstated research tax credits for 2012 and 2013, and a $21 million benefit for higher section 199 manufacturing deductions than in prior year.
Income tax payments, net of refunds received, were $727 million, $880 million and $1.1 billion for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Uncertain Tax Positions
The company files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction and in various state and foreign jurisdictions. In the first quarter of 2014, the U.S. Congressional Joint Committee on Taxation approved a partial resolution of the IRS examination of the company’s 2007-2009 tax returns. As a result, the company recorded a reduction of income tax expense of $51 million. The company also reduced its unrecognized tax benefits by $59 million and related accrued interest by $12 million. During the fourth quarter of 2014, the company filed appeals with the IRS for the unresolved 2007-2009 tax return matters and for unresolved 2010-2011 examination matters.
The company believes it is reasonably possible that during the next twelve months, we will resolve the remaining matters on our 2007-2011 tax returns. The combined resolution of these items, excluding interest, could result in a reduction in our unrecognized tax benefits up to $75 million and a reduction of our income tax expense up to $40 million. Open tax years related to state and foreign jurisdictions remain subject to examination, but are not considered material.
The change in unrecognized tax benefits during 2014, 2013 and 2012, excluding interest, is as follows:
These liabilities, along with $25 million of accrued interest and penalties, are included in other current and non-current liabilities in the consolidated statements of financial position. If the income tax benefits from these tax positions are ultimately realized, $145 million of federal and foreign tax benefits would reduce the company’s effective tax rate.
Net interest expense within the company's federal, foreign and state income tax provisions was not material for all years presented.
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Deferred Income Taxes
Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and tax purposes. Such amounts are classified in the consolidated statements of financial position as current or non-current assets or liabilities, based upon the classification of the related assets and liabilities.
The tax effects of significant temporary differences and carryforwards that gave rise to year-end deferred federal, state and foreign tax balances, as presented in the consolidated statements of financial position, are as follows:
Realization of deferred tax assets is primarily dependent on generating sufficient taxable income in future periods. The company believes it is more-likely-than-not all deferred tax assets will be realized, net of any valuation allowances currently established.
At December 31, 2014, the company has available unused net operating losses of $211 million that may be applied against future taxable income, primarily in the United Kingdom, that may be used indefinitely. A valuation allowance of $53 million has been recorded against certain deferred tax assets due to the uncertainty of the realization of these net operating losses and other deferred tax assets, principally in foreign jurisdictions.
Undistributed Foreign Earnings
As of December 31, 2014, the company has accumulated undistributed earnings generated by its foreign subsidiaries. No deferred tax liability has been recorded on these earnings since the company intends to permanently reinvest these earnings. Should these earnings be distributed in the form of dividends or otherwise, the distributions would be subject to U.S. federal income tax at the statutory rate of 35 percent, less foreign tax credits available to offset such distributions, if any. In addition, such distributions may be subject to withholding taxes in the various tax jurisdictions.
7. GOODWILL AND OTHER PURCHASED INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Goodwill
Goodwill and other purchased intangible assets are included in the identifiable assets of the segment to which the operations of the acquired entity have been assigned. Accumulated goodwill impairment losses at December 31, 2014 and 2013, totaled $570 million at the Aerospace Systems segment.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, were as follows:
(1)
Other consists primarily of adjustments for foreign currency translation.
Purchased Intangible Assets
Net contract, program, and other intangible assets comprise the following:
Amortization expense for 2014, 2013 and 2012, was $22 million, $26 million and $36 million, respectively. The company’s purchased intangible assets are being amortized on a straight-line basis over an aggregate weighted-average period of 21 years and are included in other non-current assets in the consolidated statements of financial position. As of December 31, 2014, the expected future amortization of purchased intangibles for each of the next five years is as follows:
8. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The following table presents comparative carrying value and fair value information for our financial assets and liabilities:
There were no transfers of financial instruments between the three levels of the fair value hierarchy during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013.
The carrying value of cash and cash equivalents approximates fair value.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Investments in Marketable Securities
The company holds a portfolio of marketable securities to partially fund non-qualified employee benefit plans consisting of securities that are classified as either trading or available-for-sale. These assets are recorded at fair value on a recurring basis and substantially all of these instruments are valued using Level 1 inputs, with an immaterial amount valued using Level 2 inputs. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, marketable securities of $336 million and $310 million, respectively, were included in other non-current assets in the 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 December 31, 2014 and 2013, was $146 million and $161 million, respectively. The portion of the notional value designated as cash flow hedges at December 31, 2014 and 2013, was $34 million and $77 million, respectively.
Derivative financial instruments are recognized as assets or liabilities in the financial statements and measured at fair value on a recurring basis. 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.
Unrealized gains or losses on the effective portion of cash flow hedges are reclassified from other comprehensive income to operating income upon the recognition of the underlying hedged transaction. Hedge contracts not designated for hedge accounting and the ineffective portion of cash flow hedges are recorded in other income. The derivative fair values and related unrealized gains/losses at December 31, 2014 and 2013, 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.
9. LONG-TERM DEBT
Credit Facility
The company maintains an unsecured credit facility in an aggregate principal amount of $1.775 billion (the Credit Agreement). The Credit Agreement contains customary terms and conditions, including covenants restricting the company's ability to sell all or substantially all of its assets, merge or consolidate with another entity or undertake other fundamental changes and incur liens. The company also cannot permit the ratio of its debt to capitalization (as set forth in the Credit Agreement) to exceed 65 percent. At December 31, 2014, the company was in compliance with all covenants under the Credit Agreement and there was no balance outstanding under this facility.
Issuance and Redemption
During the second quarter of 2013, the company issued $2.85 billion of unsecured senior notes (the Notes). The company used a portion of the net proceeds to redeem $850 million of unsecured senior notes due in 2014 and 2015.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Long-term debt consists of the following:
Indentures underlying long-term debt issued by the company or its subsidiaries contain various restrictions with respect to the issuer, including one or more restrictions relating to limitations on liens, sale-leaseback arrangements and funded debt of subsidiaries. The majority of these fixed rate notes and debentures are subject to redemption at the company’s discretion at any time prior to maturity in whole or in part at the principal amount plus any make-whole premium and accrued and unpaid interest. Interest on these fixed rate notes and debentures are payable semi-annually in arrears.
Total interest payments, net of interest received, were $281 million, $234 million, and $200 million for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Maturities of long-term debt as of December 31, 2014, are as follows:
The premium on long-term debt primarily represents non-cash fair market value adjustments resulting from acquisitions, which are amortized over the life of the related debt.
10. 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
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
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. 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, ECT alleges the consortium breached its contract with ECT and seeks damages of approximately R$111 million (the equivalent of approximately $42 million as of December 31, 2014), 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 $34 million as of December 31, 2014) in damages. In October 2013, ECT asserted an additional damage claim of R$22 million (the equivalent of approximately $8 million as of December 31, 2014). 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 $38 million as of December 31, 2014), 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. At yet to be specified future dates, the court is expected to hear testimony from witnesses and 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. Pursuant to the court's rules, Orange County Water District's opening brief will be due in early March, unless the court directs otherwise.
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
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
adverse effect on the company's consolidated financial position as of December 31, 2014, or its annual results of operations or cash flows.
11. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
Guarantees of Subsidiary Performance Obligations
From time to time in the ordinary course of business, the company guarantees obligations of its subsidiaries under certain contracts. Generally, the company is liable under such an arrangement only if its subsidiary is unable to perform under its contract. Historically, the company has not incurred any substantial liabilities resulting from these guarantees.
In addition, the company’s subsidiaries may enter into joint ventures, teaming and other business arrangements (collectively, Business Arrangements) to support the company’s products and services in domestic and international markets. 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 December 31, 2014, 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 consolidated financial position as of December 31, 2014, or its annual results of operations and/or cash flows.
Environmental Matters
As of December 31, 2014, management estimates that the range of reasonably possible future costs for environmental remediation is between $363 million and $809 million, before considering the amount recoverable through overhead charges on U.S. Government contracts. At December 31, 2014, the amount within that range accrued for probable environmental remediation costs was $381 million, of which $142 million is recorded in other current liabilities and $239 million is recorded in other non-current liabilities. A portion of the environmental remediation costs is expected to be recoverable through overhead charges on U.S. Government contracts and, accordingly, such amounts are deferred in inventoried costs and other non-current assets. As of December 31, 2014, $75 million is deferred in inventoried costs and $118 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 consolidated financial position as of December 31, 2014, 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 December 31, 2014, there were $295 million of stand-by letters of credit and guarantees, and $163 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 consolidated financial position as of December 31, 2014, or its annual results of operations and/or cash flows.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Operating Leases
Rental expense for operating leases was $304 million in 2014, $298 million in 2013, and $347 million in 2012. These amounts are net of immaterial amounts of sublease rental income. Minimum rental commitments under long-term non-cancelable operating leases as of December 31, 2014, are payable as follows:
12. RETIREMENT BENEFITS
Plan Descriptions
Defined Benefit Pension Plans - The company sponsors several defined benefit pension plans in the U.S. covering the majority of its employees. Pension benefits for most employees are based on the employee’s years of service, age and compensation. It is the policy of the company to fund at least the minimum amount required for all qualified plans, using actuarial cost methods and assumptions acceptable under U.S. Government regulations, by making payments into benefit trusts separate from the company.
Defined Contribution Plans - The company also sponsors 401(k) defined contribution plans in which most employees are eligible to participate, including certain employees covered under collective bargaining agreements. Company contributions for most plans are based on a cash matching of employee contributions up to four percent of compensation. In addition to the 401(k) defined contribution benefit, certain employees hired after June 30, 2008, are eligible to participate in a defined contribution program in lieu of a defined benefit pension plan. The company’s contributions to these defined contribution plans for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, were $282 million, $285 million and $293 million, respectively.
Non-U.S. Benefit Plans - The company sponsors several benefit plans for non-U.S. employees. These plans are designed to provide benefits appropriate to local practice and in accordance with local regulations. Some of these plans are funded using benefit trusts that are separate from the company.
Medical and Life Benefits - The company provides a portion of the costs for certain health care and life insurance benefits for a substantial number of its active and retired employees. Certain covered employees achieve eligibility to participate in these plans upon retirement from active service if they meet specified age and years of service requirements. Qualifying dependents are also eligible for plan benefits in certain circumstances. The company reserves the right to amend or terminate the plans at any time. The company has capped the amount of its contributions to substantially all of its remaining post retirement medical and life benefit plans.
In addition to a company and employee cost-sharing feature, the plans also have provisions for deductibles, co-payments, coinsurance percentages, out-of-pocket limits, conformance to a schedule of reasonable fees, the use of managed care providers and coordination of benefits with other plans. The plans also provide for a Medicare carve-out. Subsequent to January 1, 2005 (or earlier at some segments), newly hired employees are not eligible for subsidized post retirement medical and life benefits.
In the first quarter of 2014, we communicated an amendment to most of our Medicare-eligible retirees, that beginning in the third quarter of 2014, in lieu of the benefits previously provided under the plans, the company will provide subsidies to reimburse retirees for a portion of the cost of individual Medicare-supplemental coverage purchased directly by the retiree through a private insurance exchange. The amendment did not affect Pre-Medicare retirees. We expect that the cost of retiree medical coverage in 2015 will be comparable to 2014.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Summary Plan Results
The cost to the company of its retirement benefit plans is shown in the following table:
The table below summarizes the components of changes in unamortized benefit plan costs for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012:
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
The following tables set forth the funded status and amounts recognized in the consolidated statements of financial position for the company’s defined benefit pension and retiree health care and life insurance benefit plans. Pension benefits data includes the qualified plans, foreign plans and domestic unfunded non-qualified plans for benefits provided to directors, officers and certain employees. The company uses a December 31 measurement date for its plans.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
The following table shows those amounts expected to be recognized in net periodic benefit cost in 2015:
The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans was $30.3 billion and $25.7 billion at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Amounts for pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of fair value of plan assets are as follows:
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Plan Assumptions
On a weighted-average basis, the following assumptions were used to determine benefit obligations and net periodic benefit cost:
Plan Assets and Investment Policy
Plan assets are invested in various asset classes that are expected to produce a sufficient level of diversification and investment return over the long term. The investment goal is to exceed the assumed rate of return over the long term within reasonable and prudent levels of risk. Through consultation with our investment management team and outside investment advisers, management develops expected long-term returns for each of the plans’ strategic asset classes. In addition to our historical investment performance, we consider several factors, including current market data such as yields/price-earnings ratios, historical market returns over long periods and periodic surveys of investment managers’ expectations. Using policy target allocation percentages and the asset class expected returns, a weighted-average expected return is calculated. Liability studies are conducted on a regular basis to provide guidance in setting investment goals with an objective to balance risk. Risk targets are established and monitored against acceptable ranges.
Our investment policies and procedures are designed to ensure the plans’ investments are in compliance with ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act). Guidelines are established defining permitted investments within each asset class. Derivatives are used for transitioning assets, asset class rebalancing, managing currency risk and for management of fixed income and alternative investments.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
For the majority of the plans’ assets, the investment policies require that the asset allocation be maintained within the following ranges as of December 31, 2014:
The table below provides the fair values of the company’s pension and VEBA trust plan assets at December 31, 2014, and 2013, by asset category. The table also identifies the level of inputs used to determine the fair value of assets in each category (see Note 1 for definition of levels). The significant amount of Level 2 investments in the table results from including in this category investments in pooled funds that contain investments with values based on quoted market prices, but for which the funds are not valued on a quoted market basis, and fixed income securities valued using model-based pricing services.
(1)
Cash and cash equivalents are predominantly held in money market funds.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
The changes in the fair value of the pension and VEBA plan trust assets measured using Level 3 significant unobservable inputs during 2014 and 2013, are as follows:
Generally, investments are valued based on information in financial publications of general circulation, statistical and valuation services, records of security exchanges, appraisal by qualified persons, transactions and bona fide offers. Domestic and international equities consist primarily of common stocks and institutional common trust funds. Investments in common and preferred shares are valued at the last reported sales price of the stock on the last business day of the reporting period. Units in common trust funds and hedge funds are valued based on the redemption price of units owned by the trusts at year-end. Fair value for real estate and private equity partnerships is primarily based on valuation methodologies that include third party appraisals, comparable transactions, discounted cash flow valuation models and public market data.
Non-government fixed income securities are invested across various industry sectors and credit quality ratings. Generally, investment guidelines are written to limit securities, for example, to no more than 5 percent of each trust account, and to exclude the purchase of securities issued by the company. The number of real estate and private equity partnerships is 164 and the unfunded commitments are $833 million and $899 million as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. For alternative investments that cannot be redeemed, such as limited partnerships, the typical investment term is ten years. For alternative investments that permit redemptions, such redemptions are generally made quarterly and require a 90-day notice. The company is generally unable to determine the final redemption date and amount until the request is processed by the investment fund and therefore categorizes such alternative investments as Level 3 assets.
For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the defined benefit pension and VEBA trusts did not hold any Northrop Grumman common stock.
Benefit Payments
The following table reflects estimated future benefit payments for the next ten years, based upon the same assumptions used to measure the benefit obligation, and includes expected future employee service, as of December 31, 2014:
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
In 2015, the company expects to contribute the required minimum funding level of approximately $77 million to its pension plans and approximately $68 million to its other post-retirement benefit plans. The company also expects to make additional voluntary pension contributions of approximately $500 million in 2015.
13. STOCK COMPENSATION PLANS AND OTHER COMPENSATION ARRANGEMENTS
Stock Compensation Plans
At December 31, 2014, Northrop Grumman had stock-based compensation awards outstanding under the following plans: the 2001 Long-Term Incentive Stock Plan (2001 Plan) and the 2011 Long-Term Incentive Stock Plan (2011 Plan), both applicable to employees, and the 1993 Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors (1993 SPND) and the 1995 Stock Plan for Non-Employee Directors (1995 SPND), as amended. All of these plans were approved by the company’s shareholders. The company has historically issued new shares to satisfy award grants.
Employee Plans - In 2011, the shareholders of the company approved the company’s 2011 Plan, which replaced the expired 2001 Plan. The 2011 Plan permits grants to key employees of three general types of stock incentive awards: stock options, stock appreciation rights (SARs) and stock awards. Outstanding stock options granted after January 1, 2008, vest in equal increments over three years from the grant date, and grants outstanding expire seven years after the grant date. No SARs have been granted under either plan. Stock awards in the form of restricted performance stock rights (RPSR) and restricted stock rights (RSR) are granted to key employees without payment to the company. The 2011 Plan also provides equity-based award grants to non-employee directors.
Under the 2011 Plan, the company is authorized to issue or transfer shares of common stock pursuant to the types of awards mentioned above. The 2011 Plan authorized 39.1 million new shares plus 6.9 million shares from the 2001 Plan that were previously authorized and available to be issued at the date the 2001 Plan expired. Under the terms of the 2011 Plan, in the event that outstanding awards under the 2001 Plan expire or terminate without being exercised or paid, as the case may be, such shares (the Forfeited Shares) will become available for award under the 2011 Plan.
Recipients of RPSRs earn shares of stock, based on achievement of financial objectives determined by the board of directors in accordance with the plan. Depending on actual performance against these objectives, recipients earn between 0 and 200 percent of the original grant, as well as dividend equivalents on the ultimate number of shares issued. RPSRs and RSRs issued under either plan generally vest after three years. Termination of employment can result in forfeiture of some or all of the benefits extended. Shares issued under the 2011 Plan, other than for stock options, SARs and the Forfeited Shares, are counted against the 2011 Plan’s aggregate share limit as 4.5 shares for every one share actually issued in connection with the award; any shares issued for stock options, SARs and the Forfeited Shares are counted against the 2011 Plan's aggregate share limit on a one-for-one basis.
As of December 31, 2014, 25 million shares are available for grant under the 2011 Plan.
Non-Employee Director Plans - Under the 2011 Plan, each non-employee director must defer a portion of their compensation into a stock unit account (Automatic Stock Units). The Automatic Stock Units accrued under the 2011 Plan and the 1993 SPND are paid out in the form of common stock at the conclusion of the director's board service, or earlier, as specified by the director, if he or she has five or more years of service. In addition, each director may elect to defer payment of all or a portion of his or her remaining cash retainer or committee retainer fees into a stock unit account (Elective Stock Units) or in alternative investment options. The Elective Stock Units are paid at the conclusion of board service or earlier as specified by the director, regardless of years of service. Directors are credited with dividend equivalents in connection with the Automatic and Elective Stock Units until shares of common stock related to such stock units are issued. Since all directors are eligible to receive awards under the 2011 Plan, shares from this plan are available for future director awards following the same share counting limits as described for the employee plans. Awards under the 2011 Plan are made pursuant to the Northrop Grumman Corporation Equity Grant Program for Non-Employee Directors under the 2011 Plan, which sets forth the terms and conditions for the awards of stock units as described above.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Compensation Expense
Stock-based compensation expense and the related tax benefits for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, are as follows:
At December 31, 2014, there was $89 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to unvested stock awards granted under the company’s stock-based compensation plans. These amounts are expected to be charged to expense over a weighted-average period of 1.3 years.
Stock Options
There were no stock options issued in 2014 or 2013. As of December 31, 2014 and 2013, there were 0.3 million and 1.7 million stock options outstanding, respectively. There were 1.4 million stock options exercised during the year ended December 31, 2014. All stock options outstanding were fully vested and exercisable at December 31, 2014.
The total intrinsic value of exercised stock options for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, was $94 million, $118 million and $97 million, respectively. The total intrinsic value for options outstanding for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, was $28 million, $101 million and $66 million, respectively. Intrinsic value is measured using the fair market value at the date of exercise (for options exercised), or at December 31, 2014 (for options outstanding), less the applicable exercise price.
Stock Awards
Compensation expense for stock awards is measured at the grant date based on the fair value of the award and is recognized over the vesting period (generally three years). The fair value of stock awards and performance stock awards is determined based on the closing market price of the company’s common stock on the grant date. The fair value of market-based stock awards is determined at the grant date using a Monte Carlo simulation model. For purposes of measuring compensation expense for performance awards, the number of shares ultimately expected to vest is estimated at each reporting date based on management’s expectations regarding the relevant performance criteria.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Stock award activity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, is presented in the table below. Vested awards do not include any adjustments to reflect the final performance measure for issued shares.
The company issued 2.6 million, 3.4 million and 2.8 million shares to employees in settlement of fully vested stock awards, which had total fair values at issuance of $305 million, $226 million and $172 million and grant date fair values of $80 million, $105 million and $75 million during the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The differences between the fair values at issuance and the grant date fair values reflect the effects of the performance adjustments and changes in the fair market value of the company’s common stock.
In 2014, the company granted certain employees 0.2 million RSRs and 0.6 million RPSRs under the company's long-term incentive stock plan, with a grant date aggregate fair value of $90 million. The majority of stock awards were granted in February 2014. The RSRs will typically vest on the third anniversary of the grant date, while the RPSRs will vest and pay out based on the achievement of financial metrics for the three-year period ending December 31, 2016.
In 2015, the company expects to issue to employees approximately 2.6 million shares of common stock with a grant date fair value of $107 million, principally related to the 2012 RPSR awards that vested as of December 31, 2014. The ultimate amount of shares to be paid out is subject to approval by the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors and may vary from this estimate.
Cash Awards
In 2014, the company granted certain employees cash units (CUs) and cash performance units (CPUs) with a minimum aggregate payout amount of $32 million and a maximum aggregate payout amount of $179 million. The majority of cash awards were granted in February 2014. The CUs will vest and settle in cash on the third anniversary of the grant date, while the CPUs will vest and settle in cash based on the achievement of financial metrics for the three-year period ending December 31, 2016. At December 31, 2014, there was $122 million of unrecognized compensation expense related to cash awards.
14. UNAUDITED SELECTED QUARTERLY DATA
Unaudited quarterly financial results are set forth in the following tables. 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 each quarter-end date, in order to normalize the potentially disruptive effects of quarterly closings on business processes.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
This practice is only used at interim periods within a reporting year.
Significant 2014 Fourth Quarter Events - In the fourth quarter of 2014, the company repurchased 4.5 million shares of common stock for $599 million.
Significant 2013 Fourth Quarter Events - In the fourth quarter of 2013, the company repurchased 6.6 million shares of common stock for $699 million.
Item 9.
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure
None.
Item 9A.
Item 9A. 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 of December 31, 2014, 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 Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (15 USC § 78a et seq) 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 December 31, 2014, 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. On May 14, 2013, the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) published an updated Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) and related illustrative documents. The company adopted the new framework in 2014.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Item 9B.
Item 9B. Other Information
None.
MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
The management of Northrop Grumman Corporation (the company) prepared and is responsible for the consolidated financial statements and all related financial information contained in this Annual Report. This responsibility includes establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting. The company’s internal control over financial reporting was designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
To comply with the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the company designed and implemented a structured and comprehensive assessment process to evaluate its internal control over financial reporting across the enterprise. The assessment of the effectiveness of the company’s internal control over financial reporting was based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. Because of its inherent limitations, a system of internal control over financial reporting can provide only reasonable assurance and may not prevent or detect misstatements. Management regularly monitors its internal control over financial reporting, and actions are taken to correct deficiencies as they are identified. Based on its assessment, management has concluded that the company’s internal control over financial reporting is effective as of December 31, 2014.
Deloitte & Touche LLP issued an attestation report dated February 2, 2015, concerning the company’s internal control over financial reporting, which is contained in this Annual Report. The company’s consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2014, have been audited by the independent registered public accounting firm of Deloitte & Touche LLP in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States).
/s/ Wesley G. Bush
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President
/s/ James F. Palmer
Corporate Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
February 2, 2015
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of
Northrop Grumman Corporation
Falls Church, Virginia
We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Northrop Grumman Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company’s board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on the criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2014 of the Company and our report dated February 2, 2015 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements.
/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP
McLean, Virginia
February 2, 2015
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
PART III
Item 10.
Item 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance
DIRECTORS
Information about our Directors will be incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement for the 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after the end of our fiscal year.
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Our executive officers as of February 2, 2015, are listed below, along with their ages on that date, positions and offices with the company, and principal occupations and employment, focused primarily on the past five years.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
*
As previously announced, James F. Palmer will retire in 2015. Effective the day after the filing of this Form 10-K, Kenneth L. Bedingfield will become our Corporate Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer).
AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT
The information as to the Audit Committee and the Audit Committee Financial Expert will be incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement for the 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed within 120 days after the end of the company’s fiscal year.
CODE OF ETHICS
We have adopted Standards of Business Conduct for all of our employees, including the principal executive officer, principal financial officer and principal accounting officer. The Standards of Business Conduct can be found on our internet website at www.northropgrumman.com under “Investor Relations - Corporate Governance - Overview.” A copy of the Standards of Business Conduct is available to any stockholder who requests it by writing to: Northrop Grumman Corporation, c/o Office of the Secretary, 2980 Fairview Park Drive, Falls Church, VA 22042.
The website and information contained on it or incorporated in it are not intended to be incorporated in this report on Form 10-K or other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
OTHER DISCLOSURES
Other disclosures required by this Item will be incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement for the 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed within 120 days after the end of the company’s fiscal year.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
Item 11.
Item 11. Executive Compensation
Information concerning Executive Compensation, including information concerning Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation and Compensation Committee Report, will be incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement for the 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed within 120 days after the end of the company’s fiscal year.
Item 12.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters
The information as to Securities Authorized for Issuance Under Equity Compensation Plans and Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters will be incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement for the 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed within 120 days after the end of the company’s fiscal year.
Item 13.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence
The information as to Certain Relationships and Related Transactions and Director Independence will be incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement for the 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be filed within 120 days after the end of the company’s fiscal year.
Item 14.
Item 14. Principal Accountant Fees and Services
The information as to Principal Accountant Fees and Services will be incorporated herein by reference to the Proxy Statement for the 2015 Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be filed within 120 days after the end of the company’s fiscal year.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
PART IV
Item 15.
Item 15. Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules
(a)
1. Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Financial Statements
Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive (Loss) Income
Consolidated Statements of Financial Position
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
2. Financial Statement Schedules
All schedules have been omitted because they are not applicable, not required, or the information has been otherwise supplied in the financial statements or notes to the financial statements.
3. Exhibits
2(a)
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)
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
10(a)
Credit Agreement dated as of August 29, 2013, among Northrop Grumman Corporation, as Borrower; Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, as Guarantor; the Lenders party thereto; JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Administrative Agent; an Issuing Bank and a Swingline Lender, and The Royal Bank of Scotland plc, Citibank, N.A., and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as Issuing Banks and Syndication Agents (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed August 30, 2013)
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
(i)
Form of Notice of Non-Qualified Grant of Stock Options and Option Agreement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to Form S-4 Registration Statement No. 333-83672 filed March 4, 2002)
(ii)
Form of Agreement for 2005 Stock Options (officer) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(d)(v) to Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2004, filed March 4, 2005)
(iii)
Form of letter from Northrop Grumman Corporation regarding Stock Option Retirement Enhancement (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K dated March 14, 2005 and filed March 15, 2005)
(iv)
Form of Agreement for 2006 Stock Options (officer) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(d)(viii) to Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, filed February 17, 2006)
(v)
Form of Agreement for 2007 Stock Options (officers) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(2)(ii) to Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2007, filed April 24, 2007)
(vi)
Form of Agreement for 2008 Stock Options (officer) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(4)(i) to Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2008, filed April 24, 2008)
(vii)
Form of Agreement for 2009 Stock Options (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2(i) to Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2009, filed April 22, 2009)
(viii)
Form of Agreement for 2010 Stock Options (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2010, filed April 28, 2010)
(ix)
Form of Agreement for 2011 Stock Options granted under the Northrop Grumman 2001 Long-Term Incentive Stock Plan (As amended through December 19, 2007) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of Form 8-K filed February 22, 2011)
(x)
Form of Agreement for 2011 Restricted Performance Stock Rights granted under the Northrop Grumman 2001 Long-Term Incentive Stock Plan (As amended through December 19, 2007) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of Form 8-K filed February 22, 2011)
(xvi)
Form of Agreement for 2011 Restricted Stock Rights granted under the Northrop Grumman 2001 Long-Term Incentive Stock Plan (As amended through December 19, 2007) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of Form 8-K filed February 22, 2011)
(i)
Summary of Non-Employee Director Award Terms Under the 2011 Long-Term Incentive Stock Plan effective December 21, 2011 (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(j)(ii) to Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, filed February 7, 2012)
*(ii)
Northrop Grumman Corporation Equity Grant Program for Non-Employee Directors under the Northrop Grumman 2011 Long-Term Incentive Stock Plan, Amended and Restated Effective January 1, 2015
(iii)
Grant Certificate Specifying the Terms and Conditions Applicable to 2012 Restricted Stock Rights Granted Under the 2011 Long-Term Incentive Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed February 17, 2012)
(iv)
Grant Certificate Specifying the Terms and Conditions Applicable to 2012 Restricted Performance Stock Rights Granted Under the 2011 Long-Term Incentive Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K filed February 17, 2012)
(v)
Grant Certificate Specifying the Terms and Conditions Applicable to 2013 Restricted Stock Rights Granted Under the 2011 Long-Term Incentive Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed February 21, 2013)
(vi)
Grant Certificate Specifying the Terms and Conditions Applicable to 2013 Restricted Performance Stock Rights Granted Under the 2011 Long-Term Incentive Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K filed February 21, 2013)
(vii)
Grant Certificate Specifying the Terms and Conditions Applicable to Special 2013 Restricted Stock Rights Granted to James F. Palmer Under the 2011 Long-Term Incentive Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed September 23, 2013)
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
(viii)
Grant Certificate Specifying the Terms and Conditions Applicable to 2014 Restricted Stock Rights Granted Under the 2011 Long-Term Incentive Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed February 24, 2014)
(ix)
Grant Certificate Specifying the Terms and Conditions Applicable to 2014 Restricted Performance Stock Rights Granted Under the 2011 Long-Term Incentive Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K filed February 24, 2014)
(x)
Amended and Restated Grant Certificate Specifying the Terms and Conditions Applicable to 2014 Restricted Stock Rights Granted Under the 2011 Long-Term Incentive Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014, filed July 23, 2014)
(xi)
Amended and Restated Grant Certificate Specifying the Terms and conditions Applicable to 2014 Restricted Performance Stock Rights Granted Under the 2011 Long-Term Incentive Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 to Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2014, filed July 23, 2014)
(i)
Appendix B to the Northrop Grumman Supplemental Plan 2: ERISA Supplemental Program 2 (Amended and Restated Effective as of January 1, 2014) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(l)(i) to Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2013, filed February 3, 2014)
(ii)
Appendix F to the Northrop Grumman Supplemental Plan 2: CPC Supplemental Executive Retirement Program (Amended and Restated Effective as of January 1, 2012) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(k)(iii) to Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, filed February 8, 2012)
(iii)
Appendix G to the Northrop Grumman Supplemental Plan 2: Officers Supplemental Executive Retirement Program (Amended and Restated Effective as of January 1, 2012) (incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10(k)(iv) to Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011, filed February 8, 2012)
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
*12(a)
Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges
*23
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
*101
Northrop Grumman Corporation Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014, formatted in XBRL (Extensible Business Reporting Language); (i) the Consolidated Statements of Earnings and Comprehensive (Loss) Income, (ii) Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, (iii) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, (iv) Consolidated Statements of Changes in Shareholders’ Equity, and (v) Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
+
Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement
*
Filed with this Report
**
Furnished with this Report
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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, on the 2nd day of February 2015.
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORPORATION
By:
/s/ Michael A. Hardesty
Michael A. Hardesty
Corporate Vice President, Controller, and Chief Accounting Officer
(Principal Accounting Officer)
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed on behalf of the registrant this the 2nd day of February 2015, by the following persons and in the capacities indicated.
Signature
Title
Wesley G. Bush*
Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and President (Principal Executive Officer), and Director
James F. Palmer*
Corporate Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
Michael A. Hardesty
Corporate Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer
Victor H. Fazio*
Director
Donald E. Felsinger*
Director
Bruce S. Gordon*
Director
William H. Hernandez*
Director
Madeleine A. Kleiner*
Director
Karl J. Krapek*
Director
Richard B. Myers*
Director
Gary Roughead*
Director
Thomas M. Schoewe*
Director
Kevin W. Sharer*
Director
*By:
/s/ Jennifer C. McGarey
Jennifer C. McGarey
Corporate Vice President and Secretary
Attorney-in-Fact
pursuant to a power of attorney