** Truist Securities raises price target on defense contractor Leidos Holdings LDOS.N to $175 from $155, rating unchanged at "buy"

** The new price target is 13% higher than stock's last close

** Truist says Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) pressure is beginning to abate as Leidos reported a minimal loss of revenue for Q1

** "We believe Leidos' ability to enhance efficiency through IT software solutions aligns with DOGE's priorities," says brokerage

** "LDOS has experienced some contract cancellations, but the result is very low in the 1% range," Truist adds

** Co announced results on Tuesday

** Ten of 18 brokerages rate the stock "buy" or higher, eight "hold" ; their median PT is $168 - LSEG data

** As of last close, stock had risen 7.4% YTD

(Reporting by Apratim Sarkar)

((Apratim.Sarkar@thomsonreuters.com))