U.S. Metalworking Machinery Orders Rise Early in 2026

Demand for manufacturing technology continued to strengthen in early 2026, building on momentum that began in late 2025, according to the latest U.S. Manufacturing Technology Orders Report published by AMT – The Association For Manufacturing Technology.

New orders of metalworking machinery totaled $488.9 million in February 2026, representing a 10.7% increase over January 2026 and a 27.4% gain compared to February 2025. Year-to-date, orders reached $930.5 million through the first two months of 2026, marking a 26% increase over the same period last year.

Recovery Continues, אך Growth Patterns Diverge

The latest data reflects an ongoing recovery that began in the final quarter of 2024, following nearly three years of declining demand. While overall order values have increased, the number of units ordered has grown at a significantly slower pace.

This divergence between rising order values and relatively flat unit volumes has carried into 2026. Through February, the number of units ordered remained roughly unchanged compared to the same period in 2025.

Industry observers attribute this trend to several factors, including increased investment in automation, shifts in end-user industries, and continued market impacts from federal policy and global geopolitical conditions.

Key Industry Segments Show Mixed Trends

Contract machine shops—historically the largest consumers of manufacturing technology—reported a more than 25% increase in order value compared to early 2025. However, unit growth within this segment rose only modestly, reflecting incremental capacity expansion rather than large-scale equipment purchases.

In contrast, the aerospace sector demonstrated significant growth in both value and volume. Orders from aerospace manufacturers increased 233% year-over-year, while the number of units ordered rose 125%. The disparity between value and unit growth in this segment is consistent with the high cost and specialization of aerospace manufacturing equipment.

Investment Outlook Faces New Uncertainty

In recent months, manufacturers have continued to invest in new equipment despite economic uncertainty, as the cost of delaying capital expenditures has increased. This trend extended into the first two months of 2026.

However, emerging geopolitical developments may influence future purchasing decisions. The outbreak of conflict involving Iran in late February introduces new variables into the market. Increased defense spending could further drive demand in aerospace and defense manufacturing, while potential changes to trade policies and tariffs may temper broader investment activity.

Market Outlook

While early 2026 data points to sustained growth in manufacturing technology orders, the trajectory for the remainder of the year will likely depend on a combination of economic conditions, policy developments, and global stability.

Manufacturers continue to balance the need for capacity expansion and automation against an evolving risk environment, suggesting that demand may remain uneven across sectors.