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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

Commission File Number 1-8533

DRS Technologies, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)

(973) 898-1500
(Telephone No.)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

        Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes ý    No o

        Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. ý

        Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes ý    No o

        The market value of shares of common stock held by non-affiliates as of the last business day of the registrants most recently completed second fiscal quarter was $1,009.8 million. The number of shares of common stock outstanding as of June 8, 2005 was 27,728,150.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

1.

The information required by Part III of this report, to the extent not set forth herein, is incorporated herein by reference from the registrant's definitive proxy statement relating to the annual meeting of stockholders to be held on August 4, 2005, which definitive proxy statement shall be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year to which this report relates.

Table of Contents

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Item 1. Business

        References in this Annual Report on Form 10-K to "DRS Technologies," "DRS," "the Company," "we," "our" and "us" refer to DRS Technologies, Inc., its wholly-owned subsidiaries and majority-owned partnership.

General

        DRS Technologies is a leading supplier of defense electronic products and systems. We provide high-technology products and services to all branches of the U.S. military, major aerospace and defense prime contractors, government intelligence agencies, international military forces and industrial markets. We focus on several key areas of importance for the U.S. Department of Defense, such as intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, power management, advanced communications and network systems. Incorporated in 1968, DRS has served the defense industry for over 36 years. We are a leading provider of thermal imaging devices, combat display workstations, electronic sensor systems, power systems, battlefield digitization systems, air combat training systems, and deployable flight incident recorders. Our products are deployed on a wide range of high-profile military platforms, such as DDG-51 Aegis destroyers, M1A2 Abrams Main Battle Tanks, M2A3 Bradley Fighting Vehicles, OH-58D Kiowa Warrior helicopters, AH-64 Apache helicopters, F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and F-16 Fighting Falcon jet fighters, C-17 Globemaster II and C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft, Trident submarines, Virginia class submarines and on several other platforms for military and non-military applications. We also have contracts that support future military platforms, such as the DD(X) destroyer, CVN-78 next generation aircraft carrier and Future Combat System.

        Over the past five years, we increased our annual revenues at a compound annual growth rate of 27.3% and our operating income at a compound annual growth rate of 40.5%. For the year ended March 31, 2005, we had revenues of $1.3 billion and operating income of $143.1 million.

Available Information

        The address of our principal executive office is 5 Sylvan Way, Parsippany, New Jersey 07054, and our telephone number is (973) 898-1500. Our web address is http://www.drs.com. We are subject to the informational requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and, in accordance therewith, file reports and other information with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Such reports and other information can be inspected and copied at the Public Reference Room of the SEC, located at Room 1024, Judiciary Plaza, 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington D.C. 20549 and at a regional public reference facility maintained by the SEC located at Citicorp Center, 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago, Illinois 60661. Copies of such material can be obtained from the Public Reference Room of the SEC at prescribed rates. You may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. Such material also may be accessed electronically by means of the SEC's home page on the Internet at http://www.sec.gov.

        We provide free of charge on our web site our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to reports filed or furnished, pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, as soon as reasonably practicable after we file such material with, or furnish it to, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

        The corporate governance information in our web site includes our Code of Ethics and Code of Business Conduct for all employees of DRS, including senior financial personnel and our Board of Directors. In addition, amendments to and waivers granted to our directors and executive officers under our Code of Ethics, if any, will be posted in this area of our web site. These corporate governance documents can be accessed by visiting our web site and clicking on the "Corporate Info" link followed by the "Ethics Program" link. You can request a copy of our Code of Ethics at no cost by contacting Investor Relations at (973) 898-1500.

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Company Organization

        During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2004, we implemented a new organizational operating structure, which realigned all of our businesses into two operating segments. The repositioning was the result of strategic organizational reviews and a focused effort undertaken to integrate the Company's acquisition of Integrated Defense Technologies, Inc. (IDT), which was completed on November 4, 2003. Our two operating segments are: the Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence Group (C4I Group) and the Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group (SR Group). All other operations are grouped in Other. The C4I Group consists of four primary business areas, and the SR Group operating segment consists of three primary business areas.

        On March 10, 2005, we completed the sale of two of our operating units, DRS Weather Systems, Inc. (DRS Weather) and DRS Broadcast Technology (DRS Broadcast). The operating units were acquired in connection with our fiscal 2004 acquisition of Integrated Defense Technologies, Inc. (IDT). As a result of the divestiture, DRS Weather's and DRS Broadcast's assets and liabilities are presented on the March 31, 2004 balance sheet as "Assets of discontinued operations" and "Liabilities of discontinued operations", respectively. The results of operations of DRS Weather and DRS Broadcast for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005 and for the period from the date of acquisition through March 31, 2004 are included in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings as "Earnings from discontinued operations" and includes the gain on their sale. The cash flows of the discontinued operations also are presented separately in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the years ended March 31, 2005 and 2004.

        A summary of the operating results of the discontinued operations for the years ended March 31, 2005 and 2004 is more fully described under Note 2, "Acquisitions and Divestitures," in our Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended March 31, 2005.

        During the second quarter of fiscal 2005, DRS Data and Imaging Systems Ltd. was consolidated into our C4I Group's DRS Tactical Systems Ltd. operating unit to achieve certain operating synergies. DRS Data and Imaging Systems Ltd. previously had been managed as a part of our SR Group. Prior-year balances and results of operations for both the C4I Group and SR Group have been restated to reflect this management reporting change.

        Financial information on our reportable business segments is presented in Note 14 to our Consolidated Financial Statements, which are included in this Form 10-K (see Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data). Additional financial data and commentary on the results of operations for the operating segments are included in Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, which also is included in this Form 10-K (see Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations). The data and comments should be referred to in conjunction with the summary description of our operating segments, which follows.

C4I Group

        The C4I Group is comprised of the following business areas: Command, Control and Communications (C3), which includes naval display systems, ship communications systems, radar systems, technical support, electronic manufacturing and system integration services, and secure voice and data communications; Power Systems, which includes naval and industrial power generation, conversion, propulsion, distribution and control systems; Intelligence Technologies, which includes signals intelligence, communications intelligence, data collection, processing and dissemination equipment; and Tactical Systems, which includes battle management tactical computer systems and peripherals.

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        Our C4I Group's products and services, their applications, platforms and end-users are summarized in the table below:

5

6

7

8

9

10

Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group

        The SR Group is comprised of the following business areas: Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Target Acquisition (RSTA), which develops and produces electro-optical sighting, targeting and weapon sensor systems, high-speed digital data and imaging systems, aircraft weapons alignment systems, mission and flight recorders and image intensification (I²) night vision, combat identification and laser aimers/illuminator products, and provides electronic manufacturing services; Training and Control Systems, which develops and produces air combat training, electronic warfare and network systems, and unmanned vehicles; and Test & Energy Management, which develops and produces electronic test, diagnostics and vehicle electronics.

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        Our Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group's products and services, their applications, platforms and end-users are summarized in the table below:

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13

14

15

16

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        Other.    "Other" includes the activities of DRS Corporate Headquarters, DRS Ahead Technology (for the period we owned it in fiscal 2003) and certain of our non-operating subsidiaries. DRS Ahead Technology was sold on May 27, 2002 (see Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Acquisitions and Divestitures).

Industry Background

        The U.S. military has worked to meet the changing threats that have evolved since the mid-1980s with a focus on lighter, faster and more intelligent weapons and an emphasis on intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance. This change in focus, the end of the Cold War and the subsequent reduction in defense spending led to consolidation in the defense industry. Today, the industry is dominated by five domestic prime contractors and a few large European defense companies with an increasing presence in the U.S. markets. These large prime contractors have shifted their business strategies to focus on platforms and systems integration and consequently subcontract the development of many systems and subsystems.

        Events of the last several years, including the global war on terrorism, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, have altered the defense and homeland security environment of the United States. These events for the foreseeable future are likely to continue to have a significant impact on the markets for defense and advanced technology products. The Department of Defense (DoD) continues to focus on both supporting ongoing operations and transforming our military to confront future threats. We believe that the current business, political and global environments will create new opportunities for mid-tier defense companies like DRS to develop strategic relationships with prime contractors. Through these relationships, we believe we can provide new systems and subsystems, which are capable of meeting the military's evolving requirements.

Business Strategy

        Our goal is to continually improve our position as a leading supplier of defense electronics products and systems. Our strategies to achieve our objectives include:

•

Leverage Incumbent Relationships. We intend to leverage our relationships with government and industry decision-makers by continuing to deliver high levels of performance on our existing contracts. Our experience has shown that strong performance on existing contracts greatly enhances our ability to obtain additional business with our existing customer base. To accomplish this, we intend to continue to position ourselves as a "best value" provider for our customers. "Best value" is a DoD contracting theme which focuses supplier selection on a variety of criteria, including supplier's past performance, instead of solely on lowest price.



•

Develop and Expand Existing Technologies. Through a combination of customer-funded research and development and our own internal research and development efforts, we intend to continue to focus on the development of our technology. Customer-funded development contracts enable

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us to work with our customers to design and manufacture new systems and components, while decreasing our financial risk.

•

Continue to React Quickly to the Changing Defense Environment. In addition to being well positioned for conventional warfare roles, we intend to continue to adapt our products, such as thermal imaging, ruggedization and communication products, to address evolving military requirements, such as rapid deployment and containment of non-conventional threats including terrorism.



•

Capitalize on the Department of Defense's Emphasis on Transformation and Modernization. The Department of Defense consistently has emphasized its goal to transform the U.S. military into a nimble, light and network centric force. We believe our expertise in electro-optics, power management, training and test, signals intelligence, rugged computers, advanced communications and network systems fits well into the DoD's technological focus. DRS also intends to continue to supply upgrades for force modernization of the current force through back fit and forward fit initiatives.



•

Pursue Strategic Acquisitions. We plan to continue our active participation in the ongoing consolidation of the aerospace and defense industry. Through selective acquisitions, we aim to broaden our existing product base, build on our existing customer relationships and enhance our ability to enter new markets.

Fiscal 2005 Acquisitions

        On December 14, 2004, the Company acquired certain assets and liabilities of Night Vision Equipment Co., Inc. and Excalibur Electro Optics, Inc. (collectively referred to as NVEC hereinafter), a privately held business headquartered in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The purchase price was $47.2 million in cash, including a $4.7 million working capital adjustment paid in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2005, with additional consideration of up to a maximum of $37.5 million payable upon achieving certain annual revenue targets for a period of three years. In addition to the purchase price, the Company recorded approximately $0.3 million for acquisition-related costs. The results of NVEC's operations have been included in the Company's financial statements since the date of the acquisition.

        NVEC is a manufacturer and marketer of innovative night vision products and combat identification systems. The company focuses on the rapid development and delivery of lightweight, affordable image intensification (I²) night vision, uncooled thermal imaging, reflective combat identification and laser-based products for U.S. and international militaries and paramilitary organizations. NVEC maintains research, development and production facilities in Prescott Valley, Arizona, and has production and sales agreements with leading infrared and thermal imaging divisions of several major U.S. prime contractors. The acquisition of NVEC has enhanced DRS's position in the uncooled infrared sensor and thermal imaging systems market, as well as provided increased access to, and participation in, homeland defense efforts at the federal, state and local levels. NVEC is being managed as part of the Company's SR Group.

Customers

        We sell a significant portion of our products to agencies of the U.S. government, primarily the DoD, to international government agencies and to prime contractors and their subcontractors. Approximately 84%, 85% and 81% of total consolidated revenues for fiscal 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively, were derived directly or indirectly from defense contracts for end use by the U.S. government and its agencies. Export sales accounted for approximately 14%, 12% and 13% of total consolidated revenues in the fiscal years ended March 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively.

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Backlog

        The following table sets forth our backlog by major product group (including enhancements, modifications and related logistics support) at the dates indicated. "Backlog" refers to the aggregate revenues remaining to be earned at a specified date under contracts held by us, including, for U.S. government contracts to the extent of the funded amounts under such a contract, have been appropriated by Congress and allotted to the contract by the procuring government agency. Our backlog does not include the full value of contract awards nor does it include the sales value of unexercised options that may be exercised in the future. Backlog also includes all firm orders for commercial products. Fluctuations in backlog generally relate to the timing and amount of defense contract awards.

        We expect to record as revenues approximately 77% of our funded backlog as of March 31, 2005 during fiscal 2006. However, there can be no assurance that our entire funded backlog will become revenues in future periods.

Research and Development

        We conduct research and development programs to maintain and advance our technology base. Our research and development efforts are funded by both internal sources and as part of customer-funded development contracts.

        We recorded revenues for customer-sponsored research and development of approximately $93.1 million, $74.4 million and $44.4 million for fiscal 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively. Such customer-sponsored activities are primarily the result of contracts directly or indirectly with the U.S. government. We also invest in internal research and development. Expenditures for internal research and development amounted to approximately $38.9 million, $27.4 million and $14.4 million for fiscal 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively.

Contracts

        A significant portion of our revenue is derived from strategic, long-term programs and from programs for which we are the incumbent supplier or have been the sole or dual supplier for many years. A large percentage of our revenue is derived from programs that are in the production phase. These contracts provide us with a strong basis for projecting future business and the ability to control our cost structure.

        No single program represented more than 10% of revenues for the years ended March 31, 2005 and 2004. We have a diverse business mix with limited dependence on any single program. Only one program, the AN/UYQ-70, at approximately 13%, represented more than 10% of our revenue in the year ended March 31, 2003.

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        The percentages of revenues during fiscal 2005, 2004 and 2003 attributable to our contracts by contract type were as follows:

        Our contracts are normally for production, services or development. Production and services contracts are typically of the fixed-price variety with development contracts of the cost-type variety. The continued predominance of firm fixed-price contracts are reflective of the fact that production contracts comprise a significant portion of our U.S. government contract portfolio. Fixed-price contracts may provide for a firm fixed price or they may be fixed-price incentive contracts. Under the firm fixed-price contracts, we agree to perform for an agreed-upon price. Accordingly, we derive benefits from cost savings, but bear the risk of cost overruns. Under the fixed-price incentive contracts, if actual costs incurred in the performance of the contracts are less than estimated costs for the contracts, the savings are apportioned between the customer and us. If actual costs under such a contract exceed estimated costs, however, excess costs are apportioned between the customer and us, up to a ceiling. We bear all costs that exceed the ceiling, if any.

        Cost-type contracts typically provide for reimbursement of allowable costs incurred plus a fee (profit). Unlike fixed-price contracts in which we are committed to deliver without regard to cost, cost-type contracts normally obligate us to use our best efforts to accomplish the scope of work within a specified time and a stated contract dollar limitation. In addition, U.S. government procurement regulations mandate lower profits for cost-type contracts because of our reduced risk. Under cost-plus-incentive-fee contracts, the incentive may be based on cost or performance. When the incentive is based on cost, the contract specifies that we are reimbursed for allowable incurred costs plus a fee adjusted by a formula based on the ratio of total allowable costs to target cost. Target cost, target fee, minimum and maximum fee and adjustment formulae are agreed upon when the contract is negotiated. In the case of performance-based incentives, we are reimbursed for allowable incurred costs plus an incentive, contingent upon meeting or surpassing stated performance targets. The contract provides for increases in the fee to the extent that such targets are surpassed and for decreases to the extent that such targets are not met. In some instances, incentive contracts also may include a combination of both cost and performance incentives. Under cost-plus-fixed-fee contracts, we are reimbursed for costs and receive a fixed fee, which is negotiated and specified in the contract. Such fees have statutory limits.

        We negotiate for, and generally receive progress payments from, our customers of between 75-90% of allowable costs incurred on the previously described contracts. Included in our reported revenues are certain amounts, which we have not billed to customers. These amounts consist of costs and related profits, if any, in excess of progress payments for contracts on which revenues are recognized on a percentage-of-completion basis.

        Under generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (GAAP), contract costs, including applicable general and administrative expenses on certain long-term government contracts, are charged to work-in-progress inventory and are written off to costs and expenses as revenues are recognized. The Federal Acquisition Regulations, incorporated by reference in U.S. government contracts, provide that internal research and development costs are allowable general and administrative expenses. To the extent that general and administrative expenses are included in inventory, research and development costs also are included. Unallowable costs, pursuant to the Federal Acquisition Regulations, are excluded from costs accumulated on U.S. government contracts. Work-in-process inventory included general and administrative costs (which include internal research

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and development costs, and bid and proposal costs) of $47.4 million and $37.9 million at March 31, 2005 and 2004, respectively.

        Our defense contracts and subcontracts are subject to audit, various profit and cost controls, and standard provisions for termination at the convenience of the customer. The Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA) performs these audits on behalf of the U.S. government. The DCAA has the right to perform audits on our incurred costs on all contracts on a yearly basis. Approval of an incurred cost submission can take from one to three years from the date of the submission of the contract cost.

        U.S. government contracts are, by their terms, subject to termination by the U.S. government for either convenience or default by the contractor. Fixed-price contracts provide for payment upon termination for items delivered to and accepted by the U.S. government and, if the termination is for convenience, for payment of fair compensation of work performed plus the costs of settling and paying claims by terminated subcontractors, other settlement expenses and a reasonable profit on the costs incurred. Cost-plus contracts provide that, upon termination, the contractor is entitled to reimbursement of its allowable costs and, if the termination is for convenience, a total fee proportionate to the percentage of the work completed under the contract. If a contract termination is for default, however, the contractor is paid an amount agreed upon for completed and partially completed products and services accepted by the U.S. government. In these circumstances, the U.S. government is not liable for excess costs incurred by us in procuring undelivered items from another source.

        In addition to the right of the U.S. government to terminate, U.S. government contracts are conditioned upon the continuing availability of Congressional appropriations. Congress usually appropriates funds for a given program on a September 30 fiscal year basis, even though contract performance may take many years. Consequently, at the outset of a major program, the contract usually is funded partially, and additional monies normally are committed to the contract by the procuring agency only as appropriations are made by Congress for future fiscal years.

Competition

        Our products are sold in markets in which several of our competitors are substantially larger than we are, devote substantially greater resources to research and development, and, generally, have greater financial resources. We face a variety of competitors, including BAE Systems PLC, Raytheon Company, and L-3 Communications Holdings, Inc. Certain competitors are also our customers, partners and suppliers. The extent of competition for any single project generally varies according to the complexity of the product and the dollar value of the anticipated award. We believe that we compete on the basis of:

•

The performance, flexibility, and price of our products;



•

Reputation for prompt and responsive contract performance;



•

Accumulated technical knowledge and expertise; and



•

Breadth of our product lines.

        Our future success will depend in large part upon our ability to improve existing product lines and to develop new products and technologies in the same or related fields.

        In the military sector, we compete with large and mid-tier defense contractors on the basis of product performance, cost, overall value, delivery and reputation. As a number of consolidations and mergers of defense suppliers has occurred, the number of participants in the defense industry has decreased in recent years. We expect this consolidation trend to continue. As the industry consolidates, the large defense contractors are narrowing their supplier base, awarding increasing portions of projects to strategic mid- and lower-tier suppliers, and, in the process, are becoming oriented more toward systems integration and assembly. We believe that we have benefited from this defense industry trend.

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Patents and Licenses

        We have patents on certain of our commercial and data recording products, semiconductor devices, rugged computer related items, and electro-optical and focal plane array products. We and our subsidiaries have certain registered trademarks, none of which are considered significant to our current operations. We believe our patent position and intellectual property portfolio, in the aggregate, are valuable to our operations. We do not believe that the conduct of our business as a whole is materially dependent on any single patent, trademark or copyright.

        When we work on U.S. government contracts, the U.S. government may have contractual rights to data for our "core" technologies, source codes and other developments associated with such government contracts. Records of our data rights are maintained in order to claim these rights as our proprietary technology, but it may not always be possible to delineate our proprietary developments from those developed under U.S. government contracts. The protection of our data from use by other U.S. government contractors is subject to negotiation from time to time between us and the U.S. government. The extent of the government's data rights in any particular product generally depends upon whether the product was developed under a government contract and the degree of government funding for the development of such product.

Manufacturing and Supplies

        Our manufacturing processes for most of our products include the assembly of purchased components and testing of products at various stages in the assembly process. Purchased components include integrated circuits, circuit boards, sheet metal fabricated into cabinets, resistors, capacitors, semiconductors, silicon wafers and other conductive materials, insulated wire and cables. In addition, many of our products use machine castings and housings, motors, and recording and reproducing heads.

        Many of the purchased components are fabricated to our designs and specifications. The manufacturing process for certain of our optic products includes the grinding, polishing and coating of various optical materials and the machining of metal components.

        Although materials and purchased components generally are available from a number of different suppliers, several suppliers are our sole source of certain components. If a supplier should cease to deliver such components, other sources probably would be available; however, added cost and manufacturing delays might result. We have not experienced significant production delays attributable to supply shortages, but occasionally experience quality and other related problems with respect to certain components, such as semiconductors and connectors. In addition, with respect to our optical products, certain materials, such as germanium, zinc sulfide and cobalt, may not always be readily available.

International Operations and Export Sales

        We currently sell several of our products and services internationally, such as to Canada, the United Kingdom, Israel, Spain and Australia, as well as other countries. International sales of DRS's U.S. products and services are subject to export licenses granted on a case-by-case basis by the United States Department of State and Department of Commerce. In addition, the U.S. government prohibits or restricts the export of some of DRS's products. Our international contracts generally are payable in United States dollars. Export sales accounted for approximately 14%, 12% and 13% of total revenues in the fiscal years ended March 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003, respectively.

        There are two principal contracting methods used by DRS for export sales, Direct Foreign Sales (DFS) and the U.S. government's Foreign Military Sales (FMS). In a DFS transaction, the contractor sells directly to the foreign country and assumes all the risks in the transaction. In a FMS transaction,

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the sale is funded by, contracted by and made to the U.S. government, which in turn sells the product to the foreign country.

        We currently operate outside the United States through our C4I Group in Canada and the United Kingdom.

        The addition of international businesses involves additional risks for us, such as exposure to currency fluctuations, future investment obligations and changes in international economic and political environments. In addition, international transactions frequently involve increased financial and legal risks arising from stringent contractual terms and conditions and widely different legal systems, customs and practices in foreign countries.

Seasonality

        No material portion of our business is considered to be seasonal. Various factors can affect the distribution of our revenue between accounting periods, including the timing of government awards, the availability of government funding, product deliveries and customer acceptance.

Environmental Matters

        The Company's operations include the use, generation and disposal of hazardous materials. The Company is subject to various U.S. federal, state, local and foreign laws and regulations relating to the protection of the environment, including those governing the discharge of pollutants into the air and water, the management and disposal of hazardous substances and wastes, the clean up of contaminated sites and the maintenance of a safe workplace. Except as described under Item 3, Legal Proceedings, the Company believes that it has been and is in substantial compliance with environmental laws and regulations and that it has no liabilities under environmental requirements that it would expect to have a material adverse affect on its business, results of operations or financial condition. In the past three years, the Company has not incurred substantial costs relating to environmental compliance.

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CERTAIN OTHER OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

Executive Officers

        The names of our executive officers, their positions and offices with us, and their ages are set forth below:

*

Retired on March 31, 2005 (see Item 9B. Other Information).

        Mark S. Newman    joined us in 1973 and became a director in 1988. He was named Vice President, Finance, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer in 1980 and Executive Vice President in 1987. In May 1994, Mr. Newman became our President and Chief Executive Officer and in August 1995 became Chairman of the Board. Mr. Newman is a member of the Board of Governors of the Aerospace Industries Association and is a director of Business Executives for National Security, the Commerce and Industry Association of New Jersey and a Co-Chair of the New Jersey Technology Council. He is

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also a director on the boards of Congoleum Corporation, Opticare Health Systems, Inc., SSG Precision Optronics, Inc. and Refac.

        Paul G. Casner, Jr.    joined us in 1993 as President of Technology Applications and Service Company, now DRS Electronic Systems, Inc. In 1994, he became one of our Vice Presidents and President of DRS's Electronic Systems Group. In 1998, he became Executive Vice President, Operations, in May 2000, he became our Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and in March 2005, he retired from the Company. Mr. Casner has more than 35 years of experience in the defense electronics industry and held positions in engineering, marketing and general management. Mr. Casner is a director of ACE-COMM Corporation and Mikros Systems Corporation.

        Nina Laserson Dunn    joined us as Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary in July 1997. Prior to joining us, Ms. Dunn was a Director in the corporate law department of Hannoch Weisman, a Professional Corporation, where she served as our outside legal counsel. Ms. Dunn is admitted to practice law in New York and New Jersey and is a member of the American, New York State and New Jersey State Bar Associations.

        Robert F. Mehmel    joined us as Executive Vice President, Business Operations and Strategy in January 2001. Before joining us, he was Director, Corporate Development, at Jabil Circuit, Inc. Prior to that, he was Vice President, Planning, at L-3 Communications Corporation from its inception in April 1997 until June 2000. Earlier, Mr. Mehmel held various positions in divisional and corporate financial management with Lockheed Martin Corporation, Loral Corporation and Lear Siegler, Inc. He is also a member of the Board of Directors of United Industrial Corporation.

        Richard A. Schneider    joined us in 1999 as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. He also served as our Treasurer until November 20, 2002. He held similar positions at NAI Technologies, Inc. (NAI) and was a member of its board of directors prior to its acquisition by us in February 1999. Mr. Schneider has over 30 years of experience in corporate financial management, including ten years with NAI.

Employees

        As of March 31, 2005, we had approximately 5,700 employees, approximately 5,400 of whom are located in the United States. There is a continuing demand for qualified technical personnel, and we believe that our future growth and success will depend upon our ability to attract, train and retain such personnel. Approximately 120 of our employees at DRS Power & Control Technologies are represented by a labor union and are covered by a collective bargaining agreement through March 2006. Two DRS Power & Control Technologies employees are represented by a separate labor union and are covered by a collective bargaining agreement through October 2006. Approximately 101 employees from DRS Test & Energy Management, Inc. are represented by a union and are covered by a collective bargaining agreement that expires May 2006. We believe that our relations with our employees generally are good.

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Item 2. Properties

        The table below provides information about our significant facilities and properties at March 31, 2005.

        We leased the following properties:

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        We own the following properties:

        We believe that all of our facilities are in good condition, adequate for our intended use and sufficient for our immediate needs. It is not certain whether we will negotiate new leases as existing leases expire. Such determinations will be made as existing leases approach expiration and will be based on an assessment of our requirements at that time. Further, we believe that we can obtain additional space, if necessary, based on prior experience and current real estate market conditions.

        The Company has a mortgage note payable that is secured by a lien on its facility in Palm Bay, Florida.

Environmental Protection

        We believe that our manufacturing operations and properties are, in all material respects, in compliance with existing federal, state, foreign and local laws and regulations enacted or adopted to regulate pollution, the discharge or emission of materials into the environment or otherwise protect the environment. Such compliance has been achieved without material effect on our earnings or competitive position.

Item 3. Legal Proceedings

        We are party to various legal actions and claims arising in the ordinary course of our business. In our opinion, we have adequate legal defenses for each of the actions and claims.

        Various legal actions, claims, assessments and other contingencies arising in the normal course of our business, including certain matters described below, are pending against the us and certain of our subsidiaries. These matters are subject to many uncertainties, and it is possible that some of these matters could be ultimately decided, resolved or settled adversely. We have recorded accruals for losses related to those matters that we consider to be probable and that can be reasonably estimated. Although the ultimate amount of liability at March 31, 2005 that may result from those matters for which we have recorded accruals is not ascertainable, we believe that any amounts exceeding our recorded accruals should not materially affect our financial condition or liquidity.

        On October 3, 2001, a lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court of the Eastern District of New York by Miltope Corporation, a corporation of the State of Alabama, and IV Phoenix Group, Inc., a corporation of the State of New York, against DRS Technologies, Inc., DRS Electronic Systems, Inc. and a number of individual defendants, several of whom had been employed by DRS Electronic Systems, Inc. The plaintiffs' claims against DRS alleged infringement of a number of patents, breach of a confidentiality agreement, misappropriation of trade secrets, unjust enrichment and unfair competition. The claims related generally to the activities of certain former employees of IV Phoenix Group and the hiring of some of those employees us. The plaintiffs sought damages of not less than $5.0 million for each of the claims. The plaintiffs also alleged claims for tortious interference with business relationships, tortious interference with contracts and conspiracy to breach fiduciary duty.

27

The plaintiffs sought damages of not less than $47.1 million for each claim. In addition, plaintiffs sought punitive and treble damages, injunctive relief and attorney's fees. In our answer, we denied the plaintiffs' allegations and vigorously defended this action. In February 2002, plaintiffs filed an amended complaint, which eliminated the patent infringement claims and added claims related to statutory and common-law trademark infringement. The matter went to trial in February 2005, which proceeding ended in a mistrial. On May 4, 2005, we entered into a settlement agreement with plaintiffs Miltope Corporation and IV Phoenix Group, Inc., pursuant to which we agreed to pay $7.5 million to the plaintiffs, and litigation involving the parties was resolved to their satisfaction, with the elimination of all outstanding claims. A charge of $6.5 million was recorded in fiscal 2005 to increase the accrual for the matter to $7.5 million as of March 31, 2005, which was paid on May 5, 2005 and the litigation was dismissed.

        Some environmental laws, such as the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980 (also known as CERCLA or the Superfund law) and similar state statutes, can impose liability for the entire cost of the clean up of contaminated sites upon any of the current or former site owners or operators (or upon parties who sent waste to these sites), regardless of the lawfulness of the original activities that led to the contamination. In July 2000, prior to its acquisition by IDT, and prior to our acquisition of IDT, Tech-Sym Corporation received a Section 104(e) Request for Information from the National Park Service (NPS), pursuant to CERCLA, regarding a site known as the Orphan Mine site in the Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, which is the subject of an NPS investigation regarding the presence of residual radioactive materials and contamination. Tech-Sym Corporation's predecessor operated this uranium mine from 1956 to 1967. In 1962, the land was sold to the U.S. government, although the mining rights for the next twenty-five years were retained. Tech-Sym Corporation sold the mining rights in 1967, and we believe that the mine was operated until approximately 1972. We believe that there are other companies in the chain of title to the mining rights subsequent to Tech-Sym, and, accordingly, that there are other potentially responsible parties (PRPs) for the environmental conditions at the site, including the U.S. government as owner of the land. During its period of ownership, IDT retained a technical consultant in connection with this matter, who conducted a limited, preliminary review of site conditions and communicated with the NPS regarding actions that may be required at the site by all of the PRPs. In addition, we retained a technical consultant, who reviewed the existing documentation. The initial remediation estimate for the site was $0.8 million and the second was $1.0 million, each developed independently of the other. On February 6, 2005, the NPS sent us an Engineering Evaluation/Cost Analysis Work Plan under CERCLA (the "CERCLA Letter") with regards to Operable Unit 1 (the upper mine area) of the Orphan Mine site. The CERCLA Letter requested (a) payment of $0.5 million for costs incurred by the NPS related to the Orphan Mine, and (b) a "good faith offer" to conduct the response activity outlined by the NPS and to reimburse the NPS for future costs. The NPS advised that a similar letter has been sent to another PRP. We have initiated discussions with such other PRP, and the parties are now required to provide a response to the NPS. As of March 31, 2005, we have approximately $1.0 million accrued in connection with the potential remediation effort at the Orphan Mine site. In the event of remediation, we may incur charges in excess of that amount and/or may have our liability reduced to the extent that other PRPs are required to participate in the remediation effort. We will continue to evaluate our estimate to the extent additional information arises.

        On November 24, 2004, a lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado by ITT Industries, Inc., a corporation of the State of Indiana, against DRS Tactical Systems, Inc. The plaintiff alleges DRS breached a subcontract between DRS and ITT, and seeks damages in excess of $5.0 million. The claim generally relates to the performance by DRS and its predecessors, DRS Tactical Systems (West), Inc. and Catalina Research Inc., under a subcontract for a component being supplied to ITT under ITT's prime contract with the US Army. On February 14, 2005, DRS Tactical Systems, Inc. filed its answer, affirmative defenses and counterclaims. The counterclaims allege breach of contract and breach of duties of good faith and fair dealing and seek

28

damages in excess of $2.7 million. We and ITT have agreed to conduct nonbinding mediation. On April 13, 2005, the District Court of Colorado granted the parties' joint motion to stay the scheduling order until September 1, 2005 to allow for such mediation. We continue to believe that we have meritorious defenses and counterclaims, and do not believe the action will have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations or liquidity.

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

        None

PART II

Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

        On May 13, 2005, we announced that our Board of Directors declared its first ever quarterly cash dividend of $0.03 per share on our common stock. The first dividend is payable on June 30, 2005 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on June 15, 2005. Our credit facility was amended to allow the payment of dividends or make other distributions on our common stock (see Note 8 of the Consolidated Financial Statements). Any future declaration of dividends will be subject to the discretion of our Board of Directors. The timing, amount and form of any future dividends will depend, among other things, on our results of operations, financial condition, cash requirements, plans for expansion and other factors deemed relevant by our Board of Directors.

        The following table shows the high and low sale prices per share of our common stock during fiscal 2005 and 2004, as reported on the NYSE.

        The closing sale price of our common stock as reported by the New York Stock Exchange on June 8, 2005 was $46.95 per share. As of that date there were approximately 562 holders of record of our common stock.

        See information with respect to shares of DRS common stock that may be issued under our equity compensation plan as of March 31, 2005 in our Definitive Proxy Statement, relating to the fiscal 2005 annual meeting of stockholders, which definitive proxy statement will be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 120 days after the end of the fiscal year to which this report relates.

        We have not sold any unregistered equity securities during the period covered by this report, nor have we repurchased any equity securities during the period covered by this report.

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Equity Compensation Plan Information

        The table below sets forth information about shares of DRS Technologies, Inc. common stock that may be issued under our equity compensation plans as of March 31, 2005.

(a)

Includes 50,000 shares of common stock, the issuance and receipt of which were deferred by Mr. Newman following the exercise of certain options.

(b)

Excluded from plans not approved by stockholders are 2,500 stock options that we assumed in connection with an acquisition in fiscal 1999. Such options have a weighted average exercise price of $17.01. There are no such securities remaining for future issuance.

(c)

Represents stock options granted to Mr. Newman by the board on October 26, 1998. Such stock options were granted to Mr. Newman by the board in its discretion and not pursuant to any equity compensation plan.

Item 6. Selected Financial Data

        In the following table, we provide you with our selected historical consolidated financial and operating data as of and for the fiscal years indicated. The selected summary of earnings data, earnings per-share data from continuing operations and certain of the other data for the years ended March 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003 and the selected balance sheet data as of March 31, 2005 and 2004 presented below are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in Item 8 of this Form 10-K. The selected summary of earnings data, earnings per-share data from continuing operations and certain of the other data for the years ended March 31, 2002 and 2001 and selected balance sheet data as of March 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 presented below are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements, which are not included in this Form 10-K.

30

        When you read this selected historical financial data, it is important that you also read along with it our historical consolidated financial statements and related notes included in this Form 10-K, as well as "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."

(1)

DRS's selected financial data includes the effect of the following purchase business combinations and divestitures from their date of acquisition or divestiture by fiscal year:

a)

Fiscal Year 2005: Night Vision Equipment Co., Inc. and Affiliate—Acquired December 14, 2004.

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b)

Fiscal Year 2004: Integrated Defense Technologies, Inc.—Acquired November 4, 2003.*



*

Two operating units acquired in connection with the IDT acquisition were sold in fiscal 2005.



c)

Fiscal Year 2003: The U.S.-based Unmanned Aerial Vehicle business of Meggitt Defense Systems—Texas, Inc.—Acquired April 11, 2002; The Navy Controls Division of Eaton Corporation—Acquired July 1, 2002; DKD, Inc.—Acquired October 15, 2002; Paravant Inc.—Acquired November 27, 2002; the Electromagnetics Development Center of Kaman Corporation—Acquired January 15, 2003; and Power Technology Incorporated—Acquired February 14, 2003; DRS Advanced Programs, Inc.—Sold November 22, 2002; DRS Ahead Technology Inc.—Sold May 27, 2002.



d)

Fiscal Year 2002: The Electro Mechanical Systems unit of Lockheed Martin Corporation—Acquired August 22, 2001; and the Sensors and Electronic Systems business of The Boeing Company—Acquired September 28, 2001.



e)

Fiscal Year 2001: General Atronics Corporation—Acquired June 14, 2000; DRS Magnetic Tapehead business unit—Sold August 31, 2000.

(2)

Effective April 1, 2001, DRS adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 142 "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets" and ceased amortizing goodwill. Included in operating income for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2001 and 2000 is goodwill amortization of $5.3 million and $5.2 million, respectively.

(3)

Per-share data includes the weighted average impact of the November 4, 2003 issuance of 4,323,172 shares of common stock in connection with the IDT acquisition, the December 20, 2002 issuance of 5,462,500 shares of common stock in a public offering and the December 19, 2001 issuance of 3,755,000 of common stock in a public offering.

(4)

No cash dividends have been distributed in any of the years presented.

(5)

Earnings from continuing operations before extraordinary item, net interest and related expenses (primarily amortization of debt issuance costs), income taxes and depreciation and amortization (EBITDA). See Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures.

(6)

Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations less capital expenditures. See Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures.

(7)

Ratio of EBITDA to interest and related expenses (primarily amortization of debt issuance costs).

(8)

Long-term debt to EBITDA includes the current portion of long-term debt.

Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

        We begin the Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (MD&A) of DRS Technologies, Inc. and subsidiaries (hereinafter, we, us, our, the Company or DRS) with a company overview, followed by defense industry considerations and a summary of our overall business strategy to provide context for understanding our business. This is followed by a discussion of the critical accounting estimates that we believe are important to understanding the assumptions and judgments incorporated in our reported financial results, which we discuss under "Results of Continuing Operations." We then provide an analysis of cash flows, and discuss our financial commitments under "Liquidity and Financial Resources" and "Contractual Obligations", respectively.

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        This MD&A should be read in conjunction with the other sections of this Annual Report on Form 10-K, including our Consolidated Financial Statements.

Forward-Looking Statements

        The following discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Act of 1934, as amended, that are based on management's beliefs and assumptions, current expectations, estimates and projections. Such statements, including statements relating to the Company's expectations for future financial performance, are not considered historical facts and are considered forward-looking statements under the federal securities laws. These statements may contain words such as "believes," "anticipates," "plans," "expects," "intends," "estimates" or similar expressions. These statements are not guarantees of our future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other important factors that could cause our actual performance or achievements to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements and include, without limitation: the effect of our acquisition strategy on future operating results, including our ability to effectively integrate acquired companies into our existing operations; the uncertainty of acceptance of new products and successful bidding for new contracts; the effect of technological changes or obsolescence relating to our products and services; and the effects of government regulation or shifts in government policy, as they may relate to our products and services, and other risks or uncertainties detailed in the Company's Securities and Exchange Commission filings. Given these uncertainties, you should not rely on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligations to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Company Overview

        DRS Technologies is a leading supplier of defense electronic products and systems. We provide high-technology products and services to all branches of the U.S. military, major aerospace and defense prime contractors, government intelligence agencies, international military forces and industrial markets. We are a leading provider of thermal imaging devices, combat display workstations, electronic sensor systems, power systems, battlefield digitization systems, air combat training systems, mission recorders and deployable flight incident recorders.

        On March 10, 2005, we completed the sale of two of our operating units, DRS Weather Systems, Inc. (DRS Weather) and DRS Broadcast Technology (DRS Broadcast). The operating units were acquired in connection with our fiscal 2004 acquisition of Integrated Defense Technologies, Inc. (IDT). As a result of the divestiture, DRS Weather's and DRS Broadcast's assets and liabilities are presented on the March 31, 2004 balance sheet as "Assets of discontinued operations" and "Liabilities of discontinued operations", respectively. The results of operations of DRS Weather and DRS Broadcast for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005 and for the period from the date of acquisition through March 31, 2004 are included in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings as "Earnings from discontinued operations and includes the gain on their sale." The cash flows of the discontinued operations also are presented separately in the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the years ended March 31, 2005 and 2004.

        A summary of the operating results of the discontinued operations for the years ended March 31, 2005 and 2004 is presented under "Acquisitions and Divestitures" below.

        During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2004, we implemented a new organizational operating structure, which realigned our subsidiaries into two operating segments. Prior to the realignment, we operated with four operating segments. This repositioning was the result of strategic organizational reviews and a focused effort undertaken to integrate our November 4, 2003 acquisition of IDT. Our two principal operating segments are the Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (C4I)

33

Group and the Surveillance and Reconnaissance (SR) Group. All other operations, primarily our Corporate Headquarters, are grouped in Other.

        The C4I Group is comprised of the following business areas: Command, Control and Communications (C3), which includes naval display systems, ship communications systems, radar systems, technical support, electronic manufacturing and system integration services and secure voice and data communications; Power Systems, which includes the naval and industrial power generation, conversion, propulsion, distribution and control systems; Intelligence Technologies, which includes signals intelligence, communications intelligence, data collection, processing and dissemination equipment; and Tactical Systems, which includes battle management tactical computer systems and peripherals product lines.

        The SR Group is comprised of the following business areas: the Reconnaissance, Surveillance and Target Acquisition (RSTA), which develops and produces electro-optical sighting, targeting and weapon sensor systems, high-speed digital data and imaging systems, aircraft weapons alignment systems, mission and flight recorders and image intensification (I²) night vision, combat identification and laser aimers/illuminator products, and provides electronic manufacturing services; Training and Control Systems, which develops and produces air combat training, unmanned vehicles, and electronic warfare and network systems; and Test & Energy Management, which develops and produces electronic test, diagnostics and vehicle electronics. For additional details of products and customers by business area see Item 1, "Business," of this Form 10-K.

        During the second quarter of fiscal 2005, DRS Data and Imaging Systems Ltd. was consolidated into our C4I Group's DRS Tactical Systems Ltd. operating unit to achieve certain operating synergies. DRS Data and Imaging Systems Ltd. previously had been managed as a part of our SR Group. Prior-year balances and results of operations for both the C4I Group and SR Group have been restated to reflect this management reporting change.

        The substantial majority of our sales are generated using written contractual arrangements. The contracts require us to design, develop, manufacture, modify, test and/or integrate complex defense electronic equipment and systems, and to provide related engineering and technical services according to specifications provided by our customers. Our primary "end-use" customer is the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). For the year ended March 31, 2005, sales directly to the DoD and indirect sales to the DoD through its prime contractors and subcontractors generated $1.1 billion, or 84%, of our consolidated revenues. Our other customers include certain U.S. government intelligence agencies, foreign governments, commercial customers and other U.S. federal, state and local government agencies.

Defense Industry Considerations and Business Strategy

        The markets for defense and related advanced technology systems for fiscal 2006 and beyond will continue to be affected by the global war on terrorism, through the continued need for military missions and reconstruction efforts in Iraq and Afghanistan. The war on terrorism has focused greater attention on homeland security and better communication and interplay between local, state and federal government agencies and U.S. military services. Our nation's overall defense posture continues to move toward a more capabilities-based structure, which creates the ability for a more flexible response with greater force mobility, stronger space capabilities, missile defense, and improved information systems capability and security.

        The Future Years Defense Plan (FYDP) submitted with the President's budget request for fiscal year 2006 projects a strong commitment to research and development of transformational capabilities across the military services, while reducing quantities of near-term systems, compared with previous projections. As has been widely reported, the President's budget request for fiscal year 2006 includes $419.3 billion for overall defense spending and proposes reductions in funding for a number of existing

34

defense programs, including certain programs in which we participate. We are actively monitoring discussions regarding these proposals, but are unable to predict the extent to which these proposals ultimately will be approved as part of the 2006 or subsequent budgets approved by Congress or what the ultimate impact on DRS Technologies would be.

        In September 2004, Congress passed an initial $25 billion supplemental appropriation to defray costs for Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. This supplemental appropriation enabled the DoD to proceed on critical modernization and acquisition programs, versus using amounts available for those programs to pay for the Iraq and Afghanistan missions. In May 2005, Congress passed an additional $82 billion for Iraq and Afghanistan and combating terrorism worldwide. While there is no assurance that additional supplemental appropriations will continue to be approved by Congress, we do not anticipate that sustained operations in Iraq and Afghanistan will materially impact the procurement and research and development budget levels projected in the near term.

        DoD budgets have experienced increased focus on command, control, communications, computers intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C4ISR), precision-guided weapons, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), network-centric communications, Special Operations Forces (SOF) and missile defense. In addition, the DoD philosophy has focused on a transformation strategy that balances modernization and recapitalization (or upgrading existing platforms), while enhancing readiness and joint operations. As a result, defense budget program allocations continue to favor advanced information technologies related to command, control, communications, and computers, (C4) and Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR). Furthermore, the DoD's emphasis on system interoperability, force multipliers and providing battlefield commanders with real-time data is increasing the electronic content of nearly all major military procurement and research programs.

        While there are no assurances that increased DoD budget levels will be approved by Congress, particularly the investment budget account, the current outlook is one of increased DoD spending, which we believe will continue to positively affect DRS and other defense contractors in the near term. Conversely, a decline in the budget for the DoD investment account could have a negative affect on future orders, revenues, operating income and cash flows for defense contractors, including DRS, depending on the weapons platforms and programs affected by such budget reductions.

        Our strategy is designed to capitalize on the breadth of our technology and extensive expertise in order to meet the evolving needs of our customers. We intend to expand our share of existing programs and participate in new programs by leveraging the strong relationships that we have developed with the DoD, several other U.S. Government agencies and all of the major U.S. defense prime contractors. We expect to continue to benefit from the outsourcing of subsystems, components and products by prime contractors. We plan to continue to align our research and development, manufacturing and new business efforts to complement our customers' requirements and to provide state-of-the-art products. We plan to maintain a diversified and broad business mix with limited reliance on any single program, a significant follow-on business and an attractive customer profile.

        A significant component of our strategy has been to enhance our existing product base through selective acquisitions that add new products and technologies in areas that complement our present business base. We intend to continue acquiring select publicly and privately held companies, as well as defense businesses of larger companies that (i) exhibit significant market position(s) in their business areas, (ii) offer products that complement and/or expand our product offerings and (iii) display growing revenues, and positive operating income and cash flow prospects.

Other Business Considerations

        As a government contractor, we are subject to U.S. government oversight. The government may ask about and investigate our business practices and audit our compliance with applicable rules and regulations. Depending on the results of those audits and investigations, the government could make

35

claims against us. Under government procurement regulations and practices, an indictment of a government contractor could result in that contractor being fined and/or suspended from being able to bid on, or be awarded, new government contracts for a period of time. A conviction could result in debarment for a specific period of time. Similar government oversight exists in most other countries where we conduct business.

        We are party to various legal actions and claims arising in the ordinary course of our business. We believe we have adequate legal defenses for each of the actions and claims, and we believe that their ultimate disposition will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or liquidity (see Item 3. Legal Proceedings).

        Our sales to international customers involve additional risks, such as exposure to currency fluctuations and changes in foreign economic and political environments. International transactions frequently involve increased financial and legal risks arising from stringent contractual terms and conditions, and widely differing legal systems, customs and practices in foreign countries. We expect that international sales, as a percentage of our overall sales, will continue to increase in future years as a result of, among other factors, our growth strategy and continuing changes in the defense industry.

        Our future operating results depend on our ability to successfully compete in a highly competitive industry that is characterized by rapid technological change and to find and effectively integrate acquired companies into our existing operations. Continuation of our recent revenue growth rate depends primarily on our ability to identify and acquire suitable acquisition targets. We have participated successfully in the defense industry consolidation through strategic business acquisitions and by streamlining our existing operations; however, we cannot guarantee that we will have sufficient funds available to us to continue investing in business acquisitions. See Liquidity and Capital Resources for additional information regarding certain covenants and restrictions placed on us under our credit facility.

Acquisitions and Divestitures

        The following summarizes certain acquisitions and divestitures we completed, which significantly affect the comparability of the period-to-period results presented in this discussion and analysis. The acquisitions discussed below have been accounted for using the purchase method of accounting. Accordingly, the results of operations of the acquired businesses are included in our reported operating results from their respective effective dates of acquisition. We selectively target acquisition candidates that complement or expand our product lines, services or technical capabilities. We continue to seek acquisition opportunities consistent with our overall business strategy.

        Fiscal 2005 Acquisition    On December 14, 2004, we acquired certain assets and liabilities of Night Vision Equipment Co., Inc. and Excalibur Electro Optics, Inc. (collectively referred to as NVEC hereinafter), a privately held business headquartered in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The purchase price was $47.2 million in cash, including a $4.7 million working capital adjustment paid in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2005, with additional consideration of up to a maximum of $37.5 million payable upon achieving certain annual revenue targets for a period of three years. In addition to the purchase price, we recorded approximately $0.3 million for acquisition-related costs. The results of NVEC's operations have been included in our financial statements since the date of the acquisition.

        NVEC is a manufacturer and marketer of innovative night vision products and combat identification systems. The company focuses on the rapid development and delivery of lightweight, affordable image intensification (I²) night vision, uncooled thermal imaging, reflective combat identification and laser-based products for U.S. and international militaries and paramilitary organizations. NVEC maintains research, development and production facilities in Prescott Valley, Arizona, and has production and sales agreements with leading infrared and thermal imaging divisions of several major U.S. prime contractors. The acquisition of NVEC has enhanced DRS's position in the

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uncooled infrared sensor and thermal imaging systems market, as well as provided increased access to and participation in homeland defense efforts at the federal, state and local levels. NVEC is being managed as part of the Company's SR Group.

        Fiscal 2004 Acquisition    On November 4, 2003, we acquired all of the outstanding stock of IDT. Headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, IDT, which consisted of eight operating units, is a designer, developer and provider of advanced electronics and technology products for the defense and intelligence industries. IDT's systems, subsystems and components are sold to all branches of the U.S. armed services, various government agencies, major prime defense contractors and international governments. The total merger consideration was $367.4 million, including $261.3 million in cash (excluding cash acquired of $27.5 million) and 4,323,172 shares of our common stock valued at $24.55 per share, plus our merger-related costs of approximately $12.5 million. Upon closing of the acquisition, we repaid IDT's term loan in the amount of $200.8 million. The cash consideration for the acquisition and IDT's term loan were financed with borrowings under our amended and restated credit facility, the issuance of our senior subordinated notes and with existing cash on hand.

        We believe IDT's products and technologies complement our program and military platform applications and that IDT is well positioned to leverage the military's near-term force modernization and emerging transformation initiatives through its complementary programs, depth of engineering talent, commitment to investments in research and development, and breadth of technology.

        We believe that the acquisition of IDT provides us with several strategic benefits, including the following:

•

IDT expands our customer penetration by placing our products on a new base of U.S. Air Force programs, increasing our content on key Army and Navy weapons programs and significantly expanding our intelligence business;



•

IDT further diversifies and expands our program portfolio; and



•

IDT provides additional technology and expertise in power generation. IDT's power generation leadership, including a strong market position on a U.S. Army hybrid electric drive program, and a leading position in power distribution switchgear for the LHD-8 Amphibious Assault Ship under development at Northrop Grumman Ship Systems, complements our strong presence in the naval power systems business.

        The acquired IDT operating units are being managed as a part of our C4I and SR Groups.

        Fiscal 2003 Acquisitions    On February 14, 2003, we acquired all of the outstanding stock of Power Technology Incorporated, a privately held company principally located in Fitchburg, Massachusetts, for $35.0 million in cash, subject to adjustment, plus $14.0 million of contingent consideration and $0.3 million of acquisition-related costs. During fiscal 2004, we recorded $4.0 million in earn-out payments, with a corresponding increase to goodwill. Renamed DRS Power Technology, Inc. (DRS PTI), the company operates as part of our C4I Group. DRS PTI designs, develops, manufactures and provides life-cycle support for a wide variety of high-performance, complex power systems and rotating machinery and is concentrated in four major areas: Navy Electric Drive Equipment, Navy Main Propulsion Turbines, High-Performance Navy Pumps, and Fuel Cells and Industrial Equipment. The addition of DRS PTI to DRS's existing power systems line of business is significant to our strategy for providing naval vessels with a totally integrated gas turbine or steam turbine propulsion plant, with either electric or mechanical drive, and is expected to enhance our ability to expand our involvement in other electric drive platforms supporting Navy growth initiatives.

        On January 15, 2003, we acquired the assets and certain liabilities of the Electromagnetics Development Center of Kaman Aerospace, a subsidiary of Kaman Corporation, located in Hudson, Massachusetts, for $27.5 million in cash, subject to adjustment, plus $7.5 million of contingent

37

consideration and $0.1 million of acquisition-related costs. Kaman's Electromagnetics Development Center develops high-performance, lightweight electric motors, generators and drive electronics for defense, industrial and transportation applications. Renamed DRS Electric Power Technologies, Inc. (DRS EPT), the company operates as part of our C4I Group. The addition of DRS EPT is complementary to our existing position in ship electric propulsion equipment, control equipment, high-performance networks, tactical displays and specialty reactor plant instrumentation.

        On November 27, 2002, we acquired all of the outstanding stock of Paravant Inc. (Paravant) in a purchase business combination and merged Paravant into a wholly-owned subsidiary of DRS. Consideration in the Paravant acquisition was approximately $94.7 million in cash and the assumption of $15.5 million in debt. In addition to the purchase price, the estimated costs related to the acquisition, including professional fees, approximated $4.9 million. Paravant, which consists of five operating units, is a designer and manufacturer of highly engineered, technically advanced, defense electronics for U.S. and allied international military and intelligence agency applications. The company manufactures rugged computer systems and communications interfaces serving military Command, Control, Communications, Computer, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) initiatives. Paravant also produces high-speed processing equipment for the intelligence community and offers modernization design and installation services for select rotary- and fixed-wing military aircraft. The Paravant acquisition was compatible with the Company's goals of expanding its core tactical systems business base and increasing our presence in the U.S. Air Force and high-end signal intelligence programs supporting government agencies. The acquired Paravant operating units are being managed as part of our C4I Group.

        Pursuant to a purchase agreement effective July 1, 2002, we acquired the assets and assumed certain liabilities of the Navy Controls Division (NCD) of Eaton Corporation for $96.0 million in cash. In addition to the purchase price, the estimated costs related to the acquisition, including professional fees, approximated $3.0 million. Renamed DRS Power & Control Technologies, Inc. (DRS PCT) and located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Danbury, Connecticut, the company is a leading supplier of high-performance power conversion and instrumentation and control systems for the U.S. Navy's combatant fleet, including nuclear-powered and conventionally-powered ships, as well as for specialized industrial customers. Products include ship electric propulsion equipment, power electronics equipment, high-performance networks, shipboard control equipment and control panels, tactical displays, and specialty reactor instrumentation and control equipment. The addition of this unit complements our presence in naval advanced command and control, computer display and other ship systems. DRS PCT is being managed as a part of our C4I Group.

        In addition, we made two immaterial acquisitions in fiscal 2003.

        Fiscal 2005 Divestiture    On March 10, 2005, we sold our DRS Weather Systems and DRS Broadcast Technology operating units for $29.0 million, net of transaction costs and recorded a $0.7 million after-tax gain on the sale. DRS Weather designs, develops and produces meteorological surveillance and analysis products, including Doppler weather radar systems, and DRS Broadcast is a manufacturer of radio frequency broadcast transmission equipment. DRS Weather and DRS Broadcast operated as a part of our C4I Group. A summary of the results of discontinued operations for the

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fiscal year ended March 31, 2005 and for the period from November 4, 2003 through March 31, 2004 (the prior year period for which DRS Weather and DRS Broadcast were owned by DRS) follows:

        Fiscal 2003 Divestitures    On November 22, 2002, we sold our DRS Advanced Programs, Inc. operating unit (DRS API) for $7.6 million in cash and recorded a $0.6 million pre-tax loss on the sale. DRS API, which operated as part of our C4I Group, developed, designed, manufactured and marketed custom- packaged computers and peripherals, primarily for the DoD and the government intelligence community. DRS API, prior to the sale, recorded revenues and an operating loss of $8.5 million and $1.1 million, respectively, for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2003.

        On May 27, 2002, we sold the assets of our DRS Ahead Technology, Inc. operating unit. DRS Ahead Technology, which operated as part of our "Other" segment produced magnetic head components used in the manufacturing process of computer disk drives and manufactured magnetic video recording heads used in broadcast television equipment. No gain or loss was recorded on the sale. DRS Ahead Technology, prior to the sale, recorded revenues and an operating loss of $1.3 million and $0.5 million, respectively, for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2003.

Critical Accounting Policies

        The following is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all of our accounting policies. Our significant accounting policies are more fully described in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. In many cases, the accounting treatment of a particular transaction specifically is dictated by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, with no need for management's judgment in their application. Other areas require management's judgment to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the reported amounts of revenues and costs and expenses during the reporting period. Ultimately, actual amounts may differ from these estimates. We believe that critical accounting estimates have the following attributes: (1) require management to make assumptions about matters that are uncertain at the time of the estimate; and (2) different estimates we reasonably could have used, or changes in the estimates that are reasonably likely to occur, would have a material effect on our consolidated financial condition or results of operations. We believe the following critical accounting policies contain the more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our Consolidated Financial Statements.

        Management Estimates    The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Some of the more significant estimates made by management involve the percentage of completion and total estimated costs at completion on long-term contracts, recoverability of goodwill and long-lived and intangible assets, the valuation of deferred tax assets and liabilities, the valuation of assets acquired and liabilities assumed in purchase business combinations and the valuation of pensions and other postretirement benefits, as discussed below. We also make

39

estimates regarding the recoverability of assets, including accounts receivable and inventories, and for litigation and contingencies. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

        Revenue Recognition on Contracts and Contract Estimates    Substantially all of our direct and indirect sales to the U.S. Government and certain of our sales to foreign governments and commercial customers are made pursuant to written contractual arrangements to design, develop, manufacture and/or modify complex products to the specifications of the buyers (customers). These contracts are accounted for in accordance with American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Statement of Position 81-1, "Accounting for Performance of Construction-Type and Certain Production-Type Contracts" (SOP 81-1), and cost-reimbursable contracts with the U.S. government also specifically are accounted for in accordance with Accounting Research Bulletin No. 43, Chapter 11, Section A, "Government Contracts, Cost-Plus-Fixed Fee Contracts" (ARB 43).

        Revenues and profits on fixed-price development contracts are recognized using percentage-of-completion methods of accounting. Revenues and profits on fixed-price production contracts whose units are produced and delivered in a continuous or sequential process are recorded as units are delivered, based on their selling prices (the "units-of-delivery" method). Revenues and profits on other fixed-price contracts are recorded based on the ratio of total actual incurred costs to date to the total estimated costs at completion of the contract for each contract (the "cost-to-cost method"). Under our percentage-of-completion methods of accounting, a single estimated total profit margin is used to recognize profit for each contract over its entire period of performance.

        Accounting for the revenues and profits on a fixed-price contract requires estimates of (1) the contract value or total contract revenue, (2) the total costs at completion, which is equal to the sum of the actual incurred costs to date on the contract and the estimated costs to complete the contract's scope of work, and (3) the measurement of progress towards completion. The estimated profit or loss on a contract is equal to the difference between the total contract value and the estimated total cost at completion. Under the units-of-delivery percentage-of-completion method, revenues on a fixed-price contract are recorded as the units are delivered during the period at an amount equal to the contractual selling price of those units. Under the cost-to-cost percentage-of-completion method, revenues on a fixed-price contract are recorded at amounts equal to the ratio of cumulative costs incurred to date to total estimated costs at completion multiplied by the contract value, less the cumulative revenues recognized in prior periods. The profit recorded on a contract in any period under both the units-of-delivery method and cost-to-cost method is equal to the current estimated total profit margin for the contract, stated as a percentage of contract revenue multiplied by the cumulative revenue recorded less the cumulative profit previously recorded. Adjustments to original estimates for a contract's revenues, estimated costs at completion and estimated total profit often are required as work progresses under a contract, as experience is gained and as more information is obtained, even though the scope of work required under the contract may not change, or if contract modifications occur. These changes are recorded in the period they are determined to be necessary.

        Revenues and profits on a cost-reimbursable contract are recognized as allowable costs are incurred on the contract and become billable to the customer, in an amount equal to the allowable costs plus the profit on those costs, which are fixed or variable, based on the contract fee arrangement. Thus, cost-reimbursable contracts generally are not subject to the same estimation risks that affect fixed-price contracts.

        The impact of revisions in profit estimates on both fixed-price and cost-reimbursable contracts is recognized in the period in which the revisions are made. Provisions for anticipated losses on contracts are recorded in the period in which they become evident. Amounts representing contract change orders or claims are included in revenues only when they can be estimated reliably and their realization is reasonably assured. The revisions in contract estimates, if significant, can materially affect our results of operations and future cash flows.

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        We record contract-related assets and liabilities acquired in business combinations at their fair value by considering the remaining contract amounts to be billed, our estimate to complete and a profit allowance on our completion effort commensurate with the profit margin we earn on similar contracts. Revisions to cost estimates subsequent to the date of acquisition may be recorded as an adjustment to goodwill or earnings, depending on the nature and timing of the revision.

        We often enter into contracts that provide for significant engineering as well as the production of finished units with the expectation that we will incur substantial up-front costs to engineer the product to meet customer specifications. These arrangements typically provide us the opportunity to be awarded add-on contracts requiring the delivery of additional finished units. Our ability to recover up-front costs and earn a reasonable overall profit margin often is contingent on being awarded multiple contracts. Prior to entering into such arrangements, we estimate the amount of up-front costs to be incurred and evaluate the likelihood of being awarded the add-on contracts. Inaccurate estimates of up-front costs, coupled with the failure to obtain, or delays in obtaining, add-on contracts, could have a material effect on the timing of revenue and/or profit or loss recognition and future cash flows.

        Goodwill and Acquired Intangible Assets    We allocate the cost of our acquired businesses (commonly referred to as the purchase price allocation) to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values at the date of acquisition. As part of the purchase price allocations for our acquired businesses, identifiable intangible assets are recognized as assets apart from goodwill if they arise from contractual or other legal rights, or if they are capable of being separated or divided from the acquired business and sold, transferred, licensed, rented or exchanged, unless the intangible asset is comprised of the assembled workforce of the acquired business.

        Generally, the substantial majority of the intangible assets from the businesses that we acquire are derived from the intellectual capital of the management, administrative, scientific, engineering and technical employees of the acquired businesses. The success of our businesses is primarily dependent on the management, contracting, engineering and technical skills and knowledge of our employees, rather than productive capital (machinery and equipment). Generally, patents, trademarks and licenses are not material to our acquired businesses. Therefore, the substantial majority of the intangible assets for our acquired businesses is recognized as goodwill.

        The values assigned to acquired identifiable intangible assets for customer-related and technology-based identifiable assets are determined, as of the date of acquisition, based on estimates and judgements regarding expectations of the estimated future after-tax cash flows from those assets over their lives, including the probability of expected future contract renewals and sales, all of which is discounted to present value. The value assigned to goodwill equals the amount of the purchase price of the business acquired in excess of the sum of the amounts assigned to identifiable acquired assets, both tangible and intangible, less liabilities assumed.

        We assess the recoverability of our long-lived assets and acquired identifiable intangible assets with finite useful lives whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of the asset may not be recoverable. Factors we consider important which could trigger an impairment review include:

•

Significant under-performance relative to expected historical performance or projected future operating results;



•

Significant changes in the manner or use of the assets or the strategy that affects that asset group;



•

Significant adverse changes in the business climate in which we operate; and



•

Loss of a significant contract or failure to be awarded add on contracts.

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        If we identify the existence of one or more of the above indicators, we would determine if the asset is impaired by comparing its expected future net undiscounted cash flows with its carrying value. If the expected future net undiscounted cash flows are less than the carrying value of the asset, we would record an impairment loss based on the difference between the asset's estimated fair value and its carrying value. The determination of the future net undiscounted cash flows and the fair value of an asset involves estimates and assumptions regarding future operating results, all of which are impacted by economic conditions related to the industries in which those assets operate. Inaccurate estimates could have a material affect on the results of operations, financial position and cash flows. At March 31, 2005, we had identifiable acquired intangible assets with finite useful lives of $100.0 million, net of accumulated amortization.

        Goodwill is tested for impairment at a level of reporting referred to as a "reporting unit." During fiscal 2004, in connection with the realignment of the Company's operating segments discussed above, the components of our reporting units also changed. We have identified four reporting units for impairment testing purposes.

        The annual impairment test is performed after completion of our annual financial operating plan, which occurs in the fourth quarter of our fiscal year. We completed our annual impairment tests with no adjustment to the carrying value of our goodwill, as of March 31, 2005 and 2004. The annual goodwill impairment assessment involves estimating the fair values of our reporting units and comparing such fair values with the reporting unit's respective carrying value. If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, additional steps are followed to recognize a potential impairment loss. We estimate the fair value of our reporting units by applying third party market value indicators to the reporting unit's projected revenues, earnings before net interest and taxes (EBIT) and earnings before net interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA), and calculating a weighted average of the three extended values. Estimating the fair value of the reporting units requires significant estimates and assumptions by management, as the calculation is dependent on estimates for future revenues, EBIT and EBITDA, all of which are impacted by economic conditions related to the industries in which we operate, as well as conditions in the U.S. capital markets. A decline in the estimated fair value of a reporting unit could result in an impairment charge to goodwill, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations. At March 31, 2005, we had goodwill of $815.4 million.

        Pension Plan and Postretirement Benefit Plan Obligations    The obligations for our pension plans and postretirement benefit plans and the related annual costs of employee benefits are calculated based on several long-term assumptions, including discount rates for employee benefit liabilities, rates of return on plan assets, expected annual rates for salary increases for employee participants in the case of pension plans, and expected annual increases in the costs of medical and other healthcare benefits in the case of postretirement benefit obligations. These long-term assumptions are subject to revision based on changes in interest rates, financial market conditions, expected versus actual returns on plan assets, participant mortality rates and other actuarial assumptions, including future rates of salary increases, benefit formulas and levels, and rates of increase in the costs of benefits. Changes in the assumptions, if significant, materially can affect the amount of annual net periodic benefit costs recognized in our results of operations from one year to the next, the liabilities for the pension plans and postretirement benefit plans, and our annual cash requirements to fund these plans.

        Income Taxes    At March 31, 2005, we had net deferred tax assets of $5.2 million, including $14.5 million of loss and tax credit carryforwards, which are subject to various limitations and will expire if unused within their respective carryforward periods. As of March 31, 2005, we provided a $6.5 million valuation allowance associated with the loss carryforwards that is included in our net deferred tax assets. Deferred taxes are determined separately for each of our tax paying entities in each tax jurisdiction. Future realization of deferred tax assets ultimately depends on the existence of sufficient taxable income of the appropriate character (for example, ordinary income or capital gain)

42

within the carryback and carryforward periods available under the tax law. Based on our estimates of the amounts and timing of future taxable income, we believe we will realize our recorded net deferred tax assets. A change in the ability of our operations to continue to generate future taxable income could affect our ability to realize the future tax deductions underlying our net deferred tax assets and require us to increase our valuation allowance against our deferred tax assets. Such changes, if significant, could have a material impact on our effective tax rate, results of operations and financial position in any given period.

        Our annual effective tax rate is based on expected pre-tax earnings, statutory tax rates and tax planning opportunities available in various jurisdictions in which we operate. Significant judgment is required in determining our annual effective tax rate and in evaluating our tax positions.

        We establish accruals for tax contingencies when, notwithstanding the reasonable belief that our tax return positions are fully supported, we believe that certain filing positions are likely to be challenged and moreover, that such filing positions may not be fully sustained.

        We continually evaluate our tax contingency accruals and will adjust such amounts in light of changing facts and circumstances, including but not limited to emerging case law, tax legislation, rulings by relevant tax authorities and the progress of ongoing tax audits. Settlement of a given tax contingency could impact the income tax provision in the year of resolution. Our tax contingency accruals are presented in the consolidated balance sheet within income taxes payable.

        Other Management Estimates A substantial majority of our revenues and, consequently, our outstanding accounts receivables are, directly or indirectly, with the United States government. Therefore, our risk of not collecting amounts due us under such arrangements is minimal. We generally require letters of credit or deposit payments prior to the commencement of work or obtain progress payments upon the achievement of certain milestones from our commercial customers. In addition, our revenues are supported by contractual arrangements specifying the timing and amounts of payments. Consequently, we historically have experienced and expect to continue to experience a minimal amount of uncollectible accounts receivable. Changes in the underlying financial condition of our customers or changes in the industry in which we operate necessitating revisions to our standard contractual terms and conditions could have an impact on our results of operations and cash flows in the future.

        Our inventory consists of work-in-process, general and administrative costs, raw materials and finished goods, including subassemblies principally for use in our products. We continually evaluate the adequacy of our reserves on our raw materials and finished goods inventory by reviewing historical rates of scrap, on-hand quantities as compared with historical and projected usage levels, and other anticipated contractual requirements.

        We record a liability pertaining to pending litigation or contingencies based on our best estimate of potential loss, if any, or at the minimum end of the range of loss in circumstances where a range of loss can be reasonably estimated. Because of uncertainties surrounding the nature of litigation and the cost to us, if any, we continually revise our estimated losses as additional facts become known.

Results of Continuing Operations

        Our operating cycle is long-term and involves various types of production contracts and varying production delivery schedules. Accordingly, operating results of a particular year, or year-to-year comparisons of recorded revenues and earnings, may not be indicative of future operating results.

        Members of our senior management team regularly review key performance metrics and the status of operating initiatives within our business. These key performance indicators are primarily revenues, operating income and bookings. We review this information on a monthly basis through extensive operating segment reviews which include, among other operating issues, detailed discussions related to significant programs, proposed investments in new business opportunities or property, plant and

43

equipment, and integration and cost reduction efforts. The following table presents a summary comparison of the key performance metrics, other significant financial metrics and significant liquidity metrics monitored by senior management of the Company.

(A)

See Liquidity and Capital Resources and Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures for additional discussion and information.

Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2005, Compared with Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2004

        Revenues and Operating Income    Revenues and operating income for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005 were $1.3 billion and $143.1 million, respectively, increasing approximately $321.7 million and $39.8 million, respectively, as compared with the prior fiscal year. The increase in revenues was primarily driven by our November 4, 2003 acquisition of IDT and our December 14, 2004 acquisition of NVEC, which contributed incremental (current fiscal year over corresponding prior fiscal year) revenues of $211.8 million and $18.4 million, respectively. Also contributing to the overall increase in revenues were higher ship propulsion-related volume, increased shipments of certain combat display workstations, rugged computers, airborne-based electro-optical sighting systems and certain airborne-based infrared countermeasure subassemblies. Partially offsetting the overall increase in revenues were decreased shipments of certain ground-based infrared sighting and targeting systems. The growth in operating income for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005, as compared with the corresponding prior fiscal year, was due primarily to the overall increase in revenues and strong margins from certain ground-based infrared sighting and targeting systems and a certain carrier landing system. The acquired IDT and NVEC operating units contributed incremental operating income of $27.1 million and $4.5 million, respectively, for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005. Partially offsetting the overall increase in operating income were certain legal and severance-related charges. See Operating Segments discussion below for additional information.

        Bookings    We define bookings as the value of contract awards received from the U.S. government, for which the U.S. government has appropriated funds, plus the value of contract awards and orders received from customers other than the U.S. government. Bookings for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005 increased $380.4 million, versus the prior fiscal year, to $1.4 billion. The primary driver of the overall increase was the acquisition of IDT and NVEC, which contributed incremental bookings of $241.1 million and $21.5 million, respectively.

        Interest and related expenses    Interest and related expenses increased $15.5 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005, as compared with the prior fiscal year, to $39.8 million. The increase in interest and related expenses is primarily the result of an increase in our average borrowings

44

outstanding for the year ended March 31, 2005, as compared with the prior fiscal year. The increase in the average borrowings outstanding was driven by the financing of our November 4, 2003 acquisition of IDT, as well as our December 23, 2004 issuance of an additional $200 million of our 6⁷/8% senior subordinated notes. The notes were priced at 105% of the principal amount, reflecting an effective interest rate of approximately 6.13% (see Liquidity and Capital Resources below). We had no borrowings outstanding under our revolving credit facility as of March 31, 2005 and 2004.

        Income taxes    The provision for income taxes for fiscal year ended March 31, 2005 reflects an estimated annual effective income tax rate of approximately 43.5%, as compared with 43.7% in the prior year. Factors contributing to the decrease in our effective tax rate include a reduction in the valuation allowance for state net operating losses and a reduction of certain non-deductible expenses, offset, in part, by higher net foreign and state tax rates.

Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2004, Compared with Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2003

        Revenues and Operating Income    Revenues and operating income for the year ended March 31, 2004 were $986.9 million and $103.3 million, respectively, increasing approximately $311.2 million and $35.6 million, respectively, as compared with the prior fiscal year. The increase in revenues was driven primarily by our November 4, 2003 acquisition of IDT, and our fiscal 2003 acquisitions of the Navy Controls Division of Eaton Corporation (now operating as DRS Power & Control Technologies, Inc.—DRS PCT), Paravant Inc. (Paravant), Kaman's Electromagnetics Development Center (now operating as DRS Electric Power Technologies, Inc.—DRS EPT), Power Technology Incorporated (now operating as DRS Power Technology, Inc.—DRS PTI) and two immaterial acquisitions. IDT contributed $130.9 million to fiscal 2004 revenues. Our fiscal 2003 acquisitions contributed $147.2 million of incremental (fiscal year-over-year) revenues to fiscal 2004. Also contributing to the overall increase in revenues were increased shipments of ground- and airborne-based electro-optical sighting and targeting systems. Partially offsetting the overall increases in revenues were decreases from combat display workstation engineering services, advanced electronic manufacturing and integration services, certain maritime-based electro-optical systems and certain rugged computer systems. The growth in operating income was due primarily to the overall increase in revenues. IDT contributed $12.9 million to operating income in fiscal 2004, and our fiscal 2003 acquisitions contributed incremental operating income of $25.2 million. Partially offsetting the overall increase in operating income were certain program-related charges. See Operating Segments discussion below for additional information.

        Bookings    We define bookings as the value of contract awards received from the U.S. government, for which the U.S. government has appropriated funds, plus the value of contract awards and orders received from customers other than the U.S. government. Bookings increased $329.1 million, or 45.5%, in fiscal 2004 versus the same period in the prior year. The primary drivers of the overall increase in bookings were the acquisition of IDT, which contributed $131.0 million since its acquisition, as well as our fiscal 2003 acquisitions, which contributed $109.6 million of incremental bookings in fiscal 2004.

        Interest and related expenses    Interest and related expenses increased $13.7 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2004, as compared with the same period in the prior year. The increase in interest expense is the result of an overall increase in our average borrowings outstanding in fiscal 2004, driven by the financing of the IDT acquisition. Also contributing to the overall increase was $0.9 million of fees recorded in connection with a subordinated bridge loan commitment executed by us to secure financing in the event that we were unable to successfully consummate the October 30, 2003 issuance of the senior subordinated notes issued in connection with the IDT acquisition.

        Income taxes    The provision for income taxes for the year ended March 31, 2004 reflects an effective income tax rate of approximately 43.7%, as compared with 46.0% in the prior year. The decrease, as compared with the corresponding prior year, was primarily due to: a smaller loss incurred by DRS Tactical Systems Ltd. for which a full valuation allowance was established, along with the

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growth of our operations, which reduced the effect of the valuation allowance, and the effect of foreign exchange adjustments, offset, in part, by an increase in non-deductible expenses.

Operating Segments

        The following tables set forth, by operating segment, revenues, operating income, operating margin, depreciation and amortization, and the percentage increase or decrease of those items, as compared with the prior-year period:

*

Revenues are net of intersegment eliminations.

Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2005, Compared with Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2004

        Command, Control, Communication, Computers and Intelligence Group    Revenues increased $148.2 million, or 26.8%, to $700.4 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005, as compared with the corresponding prior fiscal year. Operating income increased $14.9 million, or 25.4%, to $73.6 million. The increase in revenue was attributable to the legacy IDT operating units, which contributed incremental revenues of $57.8 million, as well as the overall increase in revenues from higher ship propulsion engineering volume, increased shipments of combat display workstations, secure telephone and communications equipment, certain turbine generators and an international long-range infrared surveillance and observation system. Partially offsetting the overall increase in revenues was decreased volume for a certain mobile ground-based radar system and nuclear instrumentation and control systems, and naval power control systems.

        The increase in operating income for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005, as compared with the corresponding prior fiscal year, was primarily driven by the overall increase in revenues. The IDT operating units contributed $10.7 million of operating income to the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005. Operating income for fiscal 2005 was unfavorably impacted by a $6.5 million charge to increase the accrual for the settlement of the Miltope litigation and $1.2 million in severance-related charges. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2004, operating income was unfavorably impacted by certain program charges totaling $9.6 million. The charges were recorded for program cost growth of $6.2 million on certain radar programs and $3.4 million for various other programs and inventory-related items.

        Surveillance & Reconnaissance Group    Revenues increased $173.5 million, or 39.9%, to $608.2 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005, as compared with the corresponding prior

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fiscal year. Operating income increased $25.3 million, or 56.7%, to $69.9 million. The increase in revenues was primarily attributable to the IDT operating units and the fiscal 2005 acquisition of NVEC. The IDT operating units and NVEC contributed incremental revenues of $154.0 million and $18.4 million, respectively. Revenues also were favorably impacted by increased shipments of certain airborne-based electro-optical sighting and targeting systems, airborne-based infrared countermeasure subassemblies and certain infrared focal plane arrays. Partially offsetting the overall increase in revenues were lower shipments of certain ground-based electro-optical infrared sighting and targeting systems.

        The increase in operating income for fiscal year ended March 31, 2005, as compared with the corresponding prior fiscal year, was primarily driven by the overall increase in revenues, as well as strong margins on a certain ground-based electro-optical reconnaissance, surveillance and targeting system platform. The IDT operating units and NVEC contributed $16.3 million and $4.5 million, respectively, in incremental operating income. Partially offsetting the overall increase in operating income was the impact of a $1.0 million inventory write-down on certain uncooled infrared programs recorded in the first quarter of fiscal 2005. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 2004, operating income was unfavorably impacted by cost overruns of $3.0 million for a thermal target and acquisition system program, partially offset by a $1.6 million favorable program adjustment due to changes in estimates to complete.

Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2004, Compared with Fiscal Year Ended March 31, 2003

        Command, Control, Communication, Computers and Intelligence Group    Revenues increased $181.1 million, or 48.8%, to $552.3 million in fiscal 2004 as compared with the corresponding prior fiscal year. Operating income increased $25.3 million, or 75.8%, to $58.7 million. Our fiscal 2004 merger with IDT and our fiscal 2003 acquisitions primarily drove the increase in revenues. The IDT companies operating in C4I contributed $44.3 million to fiscal 2004 revenues, and the fiscal 2003 acquisitions contributed incremental revenues of $138.2 million. The revenue increase also was favorably impacted by growth in certain surveillance systems, and aircraft wire harness and cable assemblies. These increases were offset, in part, by decreases in revenues from combat display workstation engineering services, certain rugged computers and peripherals sold to the U.S. Army, advanced contract manufacturing services and shipboard integrated communications systems. Revenues for the year ended March 31, 2003 included $8.5 million from DRS API, which was sold in the third quarter of fiscal 2003.

        The increase in operating income primarily was driven by the overall increase in revenues. The IDT companies operating in C4I contributed $6.4 million to fiscal 2004 operating income and, our fiscal 2003 acquisitions contributed $23.9 million of incremental operating income. Favorable margins from the group's advanced manufacturing services were partially offset by the impact of decreased revenues from certain rugged computers and peripherals. Fiscal 2004 operating income was unfavorably impacted by charges totaling $9.6 million. The charges included program cost growth of $6.2 million on certain radar programs and $3.4 million for various other programs and inventory-related items. Fiscal 2003 operating income included charges of $2.2 million, $2.6 million and $0.5 million for cost growth on a surface search radar program, for certain charges at the group's U.K. operating unit and reorganization charges in the group's Canadian operating unit, respectively. The C4I U.K. operating unit's fiscal 2003 charges included $1.5 million for cost growth and inventory write-offs on certain programs, and $1.1 million for reorganization costs. DRS API recorded an operating loss of $1.1 million during the year ended March 31, 2003.

        Surveillance & Reconnaissance Group    Revenues increased $131.4 million, or 43.3%, to $434.7 million in fiscal 2004, as compared with the corresponding prior fiscal year. Operating income increased $9.5 million, or 26.9%, to $45.6 million. The increase in revenue primarily was driven by our fiscal 2004 merger with IDT and the fiscal 2003 acquisitions of the U.S.-based Unmanned Aerial

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Vehicle business of Meggitt PLC (now operating as DRS Unmanned Technologies—DRS UT) and DKD, Inc., (now operating as a part of DRS Infrared Technologies, LP, formerly DRS Nytech Imaging Systems). The IDT companies operating in the SR Group contributed $86.6 million to fiscal 2004 revenues, and the fiscal 2003 acquisitions contributed incremental revenues of $8.9 million. The increase in revenues also was driven by increased shipments of our ground- and airborne-based electro-optical sighting and targeting systems and digital imaging programs. Partially offsetting the overall increase in revenues were decreased shipments of commercial vision laser correction systems and certain mission data recorders.

        The increase in operating income was primarily driven by our fiscal 2004 merger with IDT, which contributed $6.6 million to fiscal 2004 operating income and the other increases in revenues, as noted above. Operating income also was impacted by cost overruns of $3.0 million for a thermal target and acquisition system program, partially offset by a $1.6 million favorable program adjustment due to changes in estimate to complete. Operating income for the year ended March 31, 2003 included charges of $2.0 million and $1.1 million for a mission data recorder program and additional costs associated with closing the group's Santa Clara, California production and engineering facility, respectively.

Results of Discontinued Operations

        A consolidated summary of the operating results of the discontinued operations for the years ended March 31, 2005 and 2004 is as follows:

Liquidity and Capital Resources

        Cash and cash equivalents, internally generated cash flow from operations and other available financing resources are expected to be sufficient to meet anticipated operating, capital expenditure and debt service requirements and expected dividend payment during the next 12 months and the foreseeable future. There can be no assurance, however, that our business will continue to generate cash flow at current levels, or that anticipated operational improvements will be achieved. If we are unable to generate sufficient cash flow from operations to service our debt, we may be required to sell assets, reduce capital expenditures, refinance all or a portion of our existing debt or obtain additional financing. Our ability to make scheduled principal payments or pay interest on or refinance our indebtedness depends on our future performance and financial results, which, to a certain extent, are subject to general conditions in or affecting the defense industry and subject to general economic, political, financial, competitive, legislative and regulatory factors beyond our control.

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        Cash Flows    The following table provides our cash flow data for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003:

        Operating activities    During fiscal 2005, we generated $138.4 million of operating cash flow, $35.8 million more than the $102.6 million reported in the prior fiscal year. Earnings from continuing operations increased $14.6 million to $58.1 million. Non-cash adjustments to reconcile net earnings to cash flows from operating activities increased $44.9 million over the corresponding prior fiscal period. These non-cash adjustments primarily consist of depreciation and amortization of fixed assets and acquired intangible assets, stock-based compensation, changes in deferred income taxes, non-cash adjustments to inventory reserves and provisions for doubtful accounts, amortization and write-offs of deferred financing fees and amortization of bond premium, which are recognized as a component of interest and related expenses, and minority interest. The primary drivers of the increase in these non-cash adjustments were depreciation of fixed assets, related to increased capital investments, and amortization of identified acquired intangible assets, a decrease in net deferred tax assets resulting primarily from the utilization of certain net operating losses and tax credit carryforwards and the realization and adjustment of certain deferred tax assets, and deferred financing fees established in the second half of fiscal 2004 related to our acquisition of IDT.

        Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects from business combinations, provided $4.7 million for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2005. Accounts receivable remained flat year over year, while the increase in inventory used $24.6 million of cash. A net increase in certain of our electro-optical sighting, targeting surveillance and acquisition inventories and increased inventories in certain of our combat display workstation, rugged computer system and surface search radar programs were only partially offset by decreased inventories in certain of our test, training and control businesses. Accounts payable increased $27.1 million, as purchases required to build inventories and acquire capital assets exceeded related payments. Accrued expenses and other current liabilities used $8.3 million of cash during the year. The cash used by these accounts primarily resulted from the liquidations of contract-related reserves, offset, in part, by an increase in income taxes payable, as income tax expense exceeded related payments. Net customer advances provided $7.2 million in cash and are directly related to the inventory increases. Discontinued operations provided $2.2 million of cash prior to their sale in March 2005.

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        Investing activities    The following table summarizes the cash flow impact of our business combinations for the years ended March 31, 2005, 2004 and 2003: