LM Expands Synthetic Aviation Turbine Fuel Capability Across Tactical Aircraft Fleet

Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] continues to drive innovation in sustainable energy solutions, with the approval of synthetic aviation turbine fuels (SATF) for its aero fleet. Following the approval of SATF for the F-35 Lightning II earlier this year , Lockheed Martin has now expanded this capability to include the F-16 Fighting Falcon and C-130 Hercules, further strengthening the company's commitment to energy resilience and mission readiness.

By integrating SATF into its fleet, Lockheed Martin is demonstrating the company's dedication to advancing the future of flight and providing customers with increased operational flexibility, reduced logistical dependencies, and a more sustainable energy solution.

“The F-16 is the world’s most combat-proven 4th generation fighter, delivering decisive capability across air-to-air, strike, and close air support missions,” said Mike Shoemaker, vice president and general manager of the Integrated Fighter Group at Lockheed Martin. “Synthetic fuels compatibility ensures the F-16 remains ready to meet evolving operational demands, strengthens global fuel flexibility and keeps this critical platform at the forefront of allied airpower.”

The C-130 continues to evolve to a changing global security environment. It is trusted by 28 operators in 23 countries for its exceptional performance, unmatched interoperability, and tactical versatility to accomplish their most critical missions.

“The C-130 is proven in every environment and has earned the trust of more nations than any other tactical airlifter,” said Rod McLean, vice president and general manager of the Air Mobility & Maritime Missions line of business at Lockheed Martin. “Approving synthetic fuels for the C-130 is more than an engineering milestone — it represents an environmental advantage from a reduced carbon emission perspective and reflects our commitment to ensuring this leading aircraft remains at the forefront of mission readiness, energy resilience and global interoperability for decades to come.”

The approval allows F-35s, F-16s and C-130s to operate with synthetic blends at currently approved limits of up to 50%, depending on the type of raw materials and production pathway, combined with conventional jet fuel. All approved fuels are currently listed in the flight manuals.

Lockheed Martin completed comprehensive technical and strategic assessment to ensure SATF meets the stringent benchmarks needed to maintain the F-16’s and C-130's full mission readiness under diverse and demanding conditions. SATF has also been approved for the F-35 Lightning II, as announced earlier this year.

The integration of SATF supports the U.S. Department of Defense’s objectives for energy substitution and diversification. It also enhances energy resilience and operational flexibility.

SATFs are derived from various raw materials. These include fossil-based sources such as coal and natural gas, as well as renewable or sustainable sources like waste oils, agricultural residues and other non-fossil-based sources.

Lockheed Martin is a global defense technology company driving innovation and advancing scientific discovery. Our all-domain mission solutions and 21st Century Security® vision accelerate the delivery of transformative technologies to ensure those we serve always stay ahead of ready. More information at Lockheedmartin.com .