TAUFKIRCHEN (dpa-AFX) - The defense electronics group Hensoldt wants to continue to grow in the current year in view of the increasing wars and conflicts in the world. Hensoldt is aiming for sales of around two billion euros, as the MDax company announced in Taufkirchen on Friday. However, analysts had hoped for slightly more on average. Of the revenue, 19 to 20 percent is expected to remain as adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (adjusted EBITDA). In addition, incoming orders are expected to increase significantly faster than sales.

Last year, Hensoldt saw an increase in demand for reconnaissance, surveillance and self-protection systems in particular. Incoming orders rose from 1.99 billion euros in the previous year to 2.09 billion euros. At the end of 2023, Hensoldt had orders worth 5.53 billion euros on its books. Revenue climbed from EUR 1.71 billion to EUR 1.85 billion and thus to the figure most recently targeted by Hensoldt. Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) increased from 292 to 329 million euros. With an EBITDA margin of 19.9 percent, Hensoldt exceeded its own forecast of 19 percent. Shareholders are to receive a 10 cent higher dividend of 0.40 euros per share./niw/stk