Science Group backs 2026 outlook amid defence sector delays

(Alliance News) - Science Group PLC on Wednesday said it remains on track to deliver a "resilient performance" in 2026 despite geopolitical uncertainty and challenges in UK defence contracting.

The Cambridge, England-based science and technology consultancy said revenue this year is expected to be lower than in 2025, primarily due to reductions in previously reported low-margin defence activities, though this is expected to be offset by improved margins.

Science Group said it had returned more than GBP24 million to shareholders since its 2025 annual general meeting through share buybacks and dividends.

At April 30, group cash stood at GBP68.5 million, up from GBP20.9 million a year earlier, while net funds rose to GBP57.2 million from GBP9.0 million. Its GBP30 million revolving credit facility, plus a GBP10 million accordion option, remains undrawn.

The company said its Sagentia Services division has seen some indirect impact from geopolitical instability, with the UK defence market particularly affected by delays linked to the postponement of the UK Defence Investment Plan.

However, Science Group said its CMS2 submarine systems business has been less affected and is progressing UK contracts that could support growth into the 2030s.

The group also said its Frontier Smart Technologies business has seen stable core DAB+ and SmartRadio revenue, while shipments of its new Auria connected audio product began in April.

Science Group added that it expects to continue its share buyback programme and said shareholders at Wednesday's AGM will consider increasing the buyback limit to provide additional flexibility.

Shares in the company were down 0.5% at 590.00 pence in London on Wednesday afternoon.

By Eva Castanedo, Alliance News reporter

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