Lockheed Martin has received approval to utilize synthetic aviation turbine fuels (SATF) in its F-16 Fighting Falcon and C-130 Hercules as part of the company’s move to implement a sustainable energy solution on its airborne fleet.
SATFs are produced from a range of raw materials, including fossil-based sources such as coal and natural gas, as well as renewable and sustainable materials like waste oils, agricultural residues, and other non-fossil-derived biomass.
The milestone comes after the solution’s clearance for Lockheed’s F-35 Lightning II fifth-generation combat aircraft in January.
The company noted that the modernization allows SATF to power the F-35s, F-16s, and C-130s in a blended form of up to 50 percent with traditional jet fuel.
It affirmed that the solution meets all performance metrics required to maintain full mission readiness under all conditions, while supporting the Pentagon’s objectives for energy substitution and diversification.
Earlier this year, NATO member and US ally Norway flew its first F-35 with SATF from Ørland Air Station.
Reflecting ‘Commitment’
Commenting on the application of SATF for the F-16, Mike Shoemaker, Vice President of Lockheed Martin’s Integrated Fighter Group, highlighted the fuel’s advantages for the combat-proven fourth-generation fighter.
“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,” Shoemaker said.
Meanwhile, Lockheed Martin Air Mobility & Maritime Missions Vice President Rod McLean emphasized how the compound will enhance C-130 performance across all operational domains and its utility for airlift partner operators worldwide.
“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,” McLean explained.
Currently, more than 25 nations employ the F-16 jet, while the C-130 has been adopted by over 70 countries.
