British defense firm QinetiQ reported a 18% rise in underlying operating profit, beating estimates. Shares surged over 8% on Thursday.
Underlying operating profit reached £218 million, above the consensus of £211.3 million.
The company is reviewing the strategic fit of its U.S. business with all options on the table.
Jefferies analysts noted QinetiQ is fighting to regain market confidence.
Underlying EPS of 31.5 pence topped the 30.9 pence consensus.
Revenue of £1.92 billion was broadly in line with expectations of £1.93 billion.
Full-year dividend proposed at 11 pence per share, up from 8.85 pence a year earlier.
CEO Steve Wadey said the company delivered resilient performance in challenging markets.
QinetiQ announced a £200 million extension to its share buyback program.
For the year ahead, the company guides revenue growth of 3% to 5% and operating margin of 11% to 11.5%.
