RTX and GE Aerospace Lead Boeing in Aerospace-Defense Sector Performance
The aerospace and defense sector has seen significant performance differences among its top players in 2026. RTX (NYSE:RTX) has led the way, with a year-to-date gain of 14% to $208.84. GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE) is close behind, up 11% to $341.19. Boeing (NYSE:BA), on the other hand, has lagged, down 3% to $210.26.
The iShares U.S. Aerospace & Defense ETF (NYSEARCA:ITA) has followed a similar trend, with an 8% year-to-date gain to $233.09. This is notable because the fund holds a broader range of aerospace and defense companies beyond RTX and GE Aerospace. The sector's performance in 2026 has been driven by real differences in business models among these three players.
RTX, for example, spans defense systems and aerospace components across its portfolio, giving it multiple growth engines. In contrast, Boeing builds airframes with more exposure to production execution and program timing, while GE Aerospace focuses on engine building with a recurring-revenue model tied to fleet activity. As the sector continues into 2026, investors can expect these differences in business models to remain significant.
Given the wide spread between top and bottom performers within this group, concentration in any single name has carried real consequences. Moderate position sizing across the group may be more prudent than a concentrated bet on any single name, especially considering the different rewards each business model has been receiving so far in 2026.