Alliant Tech 4Q profit up 19 percent, sales up in all units

MINNEAPOLIS—Alliant Techsystems Inc.'s fiscal fourth-quarter earnings jumped 19 percent as sales rose in each of its operating divisions, the military contractor said Thursday.

ATK, which makes ammunition, propulsion systems and aerospace supplies, said net income in the quarter ended March 31 rose to $64.4 million, or $1.83 per share, from $54.1 million, or $1.57 per share, a year ago.

Analysts expected earnings of $1.77 per share, according to Thomson Financial.

Sales added 12 percent to $1.13 billion from $1.01 billion, as the company's armaments, launch systems and mission systems units each posted gains.

The company also said it cut operating costs at its ammunition unit.

For the year, profit climbed 23 percent to $226.3 million, or $6.43 per share, and sales rose 17 percent to $4.17 billion.

ATK said the fourth-quarter results do not include any charges related to its planned acquisition of a unit from MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates. The company said it could book a charge in the quarter if the deal closes as expected.

ATK also raised its fiscal 2009 earnings target to reflect expected lower costs.