nLIGHT, Inc. Q3 2025 Earnings Recap

nLIGHT, Inc. delivered a strong Q3 2025 performance, achieving $67 million in revenue—19% growth year-over-year—primarily driven by record defense product sales. The company reported a record gross margin of 41% and exceeded adjusted EBITDA expectations.

Key Takeaways

• Record aerospace and defense revenue of $46 million, up 50% year-over-year, with defense product sales skyrocketing 71%.
• Adjusted EBITDA surpassed expectations, exceeding $7 million as a result of improved gross margins and disciplined operational costs.
• Significant progress on the $171 million HELSI-2 program and a new $50 million contract in missile guidance highlight strong growth prospects in directed energy and laser sensing sectors.
• nLIGHT is strategically positioned to benefit from increased U.S. directed energy initiatives and international market expansion for defense applications.