General Dynamics (NYSE: GD) is a global aerospace and defense company with origins tracing back to Electric Boat in 1899 and its formal incorporation under the General Dynamics name in 1952. Over the decades, it has evolved through strategic acquisitions and organic growth to become one of the world’s leading manufacturers of military and civilian platforms. The company’s long history reflects a commitment to innovation, reliability and meeting the complex requirements of defense and commercial customers worldwide.
The company operates through several core business segments, including Aerospace, Combat Systems, Marine Systems and Technologies. In the Aerospace segment, General Dynamics is renowned for its Gulfstream business jets, offering a range of high-performance aircraft used by corporations, governments and private individuals. Its Combat Systems division produces armored vehicles such as the M1 Abrams Main Battle Tank and a variety of battlefield support vehicles. Through its Marine Systems unit, the company designs and constructs nuclear-powered submarines, destroyers and auxiliary vessels for the U.S. Navy and allied navies. The Technologies segment provides IT services, cybersecurity solutions, mission support and C4ISR (command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance) systems to government agencies and commercial clients.
General Dynamics maintains a broad geographic footprint, with facilities and operations across North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia-Pacific. The company’s U.S. facilities play a central role in shipbuilding, land systems manufacturing and aircraft production, while its international sites support regional maintenance, training and customer support. Its customer base includes the U.S. Department of Defense, allied foreign governments, large corporations and private individuals, reflecting a balanced mix of defense and commercial demand. Through partnerships and joint ventures, General Dynamics tailors its technologies and platforms to meet diverse regulatory and operational requirements around the globe.
At the helm of General Dynamics is Chair and Chief Executive Officer Phebe Novakovic, who has overseen the company’s strategic direction since 2013. Under her leadership, the company has emphasized technological innovation, operational efficiency and disciplined capital allocation. General Dynamics employs a workforce of tens of thousands of engineers, craftsmen and support staff dedicated to research, development and the delivery of mission-critical solutions. Guided by a culture of integrity and performance, the company continues to invest in next-generation capabilities such as autonomous systems, advanced materials and digital modernization to address evolving defense and aerospace challenges.