International technology group RUAG posted slightly higher net sales of CHF 1,752 million in 2013 (previous year: CHF 1,741 million). Earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT) came to CHF 115 million, similar to the previous year's level (CHF 113 million).

The EBIT margin (EBIT/operating performance) increased slightly to 6.6% (6.3%), while net profit rose by CHF 16 million to CHF 94 million. Civil business contributed 56% to sales.

All five divisions operated profitably and contributed to the positive group result. With a 56% share of sales (50%), revenue from civil business exceeded that of military business, which contributed 44% (50%) of sales. The highest growth was posted by the Hunting & Sports business unit of small-caliber ammunition specialist RUAG Ammotec.

The results should not hide the fact that the business situation remains difficult. Only by systematically implementing its corporate strategy has RUAG been able to offset the falling volumes in Switzerland and in the European markets. The corporate strategy consists of three key areas: combining civilian and military technologies, focusing on the core business (aerospace and defense), and international growth.

The following highlights from 2013 are key to the company's future and reflect the successful implementation of RUAG's corporate strategy:

• In July 2013, US rocket maker United Launch Alliance chose RUAG to be its strategic partner for innovative double structures enabling two satellites to be delivered into orbit in a single launch.
• At the end of the reporting year, RUAG sealed the sale of ten Dornier 228 (passenger version) turboprop aircraft to Venezuela.
• The disposal of Mechanical Engineering AG and the closure of Automotive in 2013 completed the measures taken to focus RUAG Technology on aerostructures. Consequently, the former RUAG Technology division was renamed RUAG Aerostructures. With this move, RUAG is emphasizing the growing significance of the aerostructures business and positioning itself more clearly within the international aviation market.
• RUAG continued to successfully enter international growth markets. Australian company Rosebank Engineering, acquired by RUAG in late 2012, was fully integrated in 2013. This acquisition enhances RUAG's capabilities in aircraft component maintenance and provides better access to the Asia/Pacific region.
• In November 2013, RUAG acquired GAVAP, a French SME specializing in simulation and training systems. This acquisition will open up medium- and long-term growth opportunities for RUAG.