The Leonardo stock opens trading in the running and a few minutes later it is at the top of the Ftse Mib with an increase of 3,6 to 10,84 euros. The company led by Alessandro Profumo thus continues to recover ground after the difficult period following the publication of the industrial plan (arrived in January) and is once again approaching 9 euro per share: since the beginning of the month, the shares have gained almost 9%, while in the last six months the balance amounts to +15,3%
Pushing today's purchases is the announcement of a new order worth 2,4 billion dollars from the US Air Force.
In detail, the special forces chose the MH-139 helicopter, based on Leonardo's AW139 and offered by Boeing as prime contractor, to replace its fleet of UH-1N "Hueys". “The program – reveals Leonardo itself through a note – has a value of approximately 2,4 billion dollars and includes up to 84 helicopters, training systems and the related equipment for logistical support. The helicopters will be used to protect ICBM bases and transport US government and special forces personnel, with the first helicopters expected to enter service in 2021.
“This extraordinary result is a source of great pride for us – declared CEO Profumo – Clients of primary importance continue to rely on Leonardo, because it is capable of responding to their most demanding requirements. And this is also confirmed for carrying out critical missions, such as the protection of sensitive areas or for the transport of government personnel and special operations. The choice of the MH-139 also recognizes Leonardo as a strong, reliable partner capable of ensuring a solid and constant industrial contribution in the USA where we have various production activities".
Finally, it should be remembered that, according to the data collected by Bloomberg, the recommendations on the stock are divided into 12 "buys" and 6 "holds" with an average 12-month target price of 12,19 euros, which implies a potential upside of around 12 % compared to the current quotation.
