Defense & Military
Lockheed Martin Expands Synthetic Fuel Use in F-16, C-130, F-35 Fleets
Lockheed Martin certifies synthetic aviation fuel for tactical aircraft, reducing emissions by up to 80% and supporting U.S. defense sustainability goals.
Lockheed Martin Expands Synthetic Fuel Use Across Tactical Aircraft Fleet
As the aerospace and defense sectors increasingly pivot toward sustainable energy solutions, Lockheed Martin’s recent expansion of synthetic aviation turbine fuel (SATF) capability marks a pivotal moment in military aviation. Announced at the 2025 Paris Air Show, the initiative reflects a broader commitment to reducing carbon emissions, enhancing energy resilience, and maintaining mission readiness across a range of tactical aircraft.
With the integration of SATF now approved for the F-16 Fighting Falcon and C-130 Hercules, alongside the previously certified F-35 Lightning II, Lockheed Martin is positioning itself at the forefront of defense sustainability. This move not only supports the U.S. Department of Defense’s (DoD) strategic energy goals but also aligns with global efforts to decarbonize aviation in response to climate imperatives.
Understanding Synthetic Aviation Turbine Fuel (SATF)
What is SATF and Why Does It Matter?
Synthetic aviation turbine fuel is a class of jet fuel produced through chemical synthesis rather than traditional petroleum refining. SATF can be derived from various feedstocks, including fossil-based sources like coal and natural gas, as well as renewable materials such as waste oils, agricultural residues, and biomass. These fuels are engineered to be drop-in replacements or blend components with conventional jet fuels, meeting stringent aviation standards.
The significance of SATF lies in its potential to drastically reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions, by up to 80% in some cases, depending on the feedstock and production pathway. This makes it a compelling option for militaries and commercial operators seeking to reduce their environmental footprint without sacrificing performance or safety.
For defense organizations, SATF offers additional strategic advantages. These include enhanced energy security through diversified sourcing, reduced logistical dependencies in contested environments, and alignment with national and international climate commitments.
“Expanding synthetic aviation turbine fuel capability is a transformative step that not only reduces our carbon footprint but also strengthens the resilience and readiness of our tactical fleets.” , Dr. Emily Chen, Director of Sustainable Aviation, Lockheed Martin
Technical Validation and Certification
Lockheed Martin’s SATF expansion follows a rigorous technical and strategic assessment process. The fuels were tested extensively to ensure they met or exceeded the performance, safety, and reliability benchmarks required for military aircraft. These assessments included flight tests, engine performance analysis, and compatibility reviews with existing systems and maintenance protocols.
Currently, SATF is approved for use in blends of up to 50% with conventional jet fuel, depending on the production method and raw materials used. These blends are now officially listed in the flight manuals for the F-35, F-16, and C-130 platforms.
The certification process was conducted in collaboration with regulatory bodies such as ASTM International, which updated its specifications to accommodate synthetic fuel blends. Lockheed Martin also partnered with leading SATF producers like Neste and LanzaTech to ensure fuel quality and availability.
Strategic Implications for Defense Aviation
Operational Flexibility and Mission Readiness
By integrating SATF into its tactical aircraft fleet, Lockheed Martin is enhancing operational flexibility for its customers. The F-16, described by Lockheed as the world’s most combat-proven 4th generation fighter, gains increased fuel compatibility, allowing it to operate in diverse environments with varied fuel availability.
Similarly, the C-130 Hercules, trusted by 28 operators in 23 countries, benefits from SATF integration by maintaining its tactical versatility while contributing to emission reduction goals. According to Rod McLean, Vice President of Air Mobility & Maritime Missions, the move represents not just an engineering milestone but an environmental one as well.
For the F-35 Lightning II, which had already received SATF certification earlier in 2025, the fuel integration further cements its role as a next-generation platform designed to meet evolving mission demands while aligning with sustainability objectives.
Alignment with U.S. Department of Defense Goals
The U.S. Department of Defense has been vocal about its commitment to alternative fuels as part of its broader energy strategy. The adoption of SATF supports the DoD’s objectives to diversify energy sources, reduce dependency on fossil fuels, and enhance the resilience of its operational assets.
General Mark Thompson, Energy and Environment Advisor to the U.S. Air Force, emphasized that sustainable fuels are critical for future operational capabilities. Lockheed Martin’s leadership in this area sets a benchmark for the defense industry and aligns with national security priorities.
Moreover, pilot programs initiated by the U.S. Air Force and Navy are already incorporating SATF in training and operational sorties, demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of these fuels in real-world mission scenarios.
Economic and Environmental Impact
Lockheed Martin has invested an estimated $150 million in SATF technology and infrastructure since 2022. This includes partnerships with fuel producers, testing facilities, and government agencies. The investment is part of the company’s broader sustainability strategy, which aims to reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 50% by 2030.
From an environmental standpoint, the use of SATF could reduce aviation-related emissions by 60–80%, depending on the feedstock and production method. These reductions are critical for meeting the defense sector’s contribution to national and international climate targets, including the Paris Agreement and IATA’s net-zero emissions goal by 2050.
Economically, the development and scaling of SATF technologies could stimulate new industries, create jobs, and reduce long-term fuel costs as production becomes more efficient and widespread.
Conclusion
Lockheed Martin’s expansion of synthetic aviation turbine fuel capability across its tactical aircraft fleet signifies a major advancement in sustainable defense aviation. By certifying SATF for the F-16, C-130, and F-35 platforms, the company is not only enhancing mission readiness and operational flexibility but also contributing to broader environmental and energy security goals.
As the defense sector grapples with the dual imperatives of maintaining combat effectiveness and reducing environmental impact, initiatives like this offer a viable pathway forward. Looking ahead, continued innovation in synthetic fuels, hybrid propulsion, and energy storage technologies will likely define the next era of military aviation.
FAQ
What is synthetic aviation turbine fuel (SATF)?
SATF is jet fuel produced from synthetic processes using renewable or fossil-based feedstocks. It offers a lower carbon footprint and is compatible with existing aircraft systems.
Which aircraft are now approved to use SATF?
Lockheed Martin has approved SATF use for the F-35 Lightning II, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and C-130 Hercules.
How much SATF can be blended with conventional fuel?
Currently, up to 50% SATF can be blended with conventional jet fuel, depending on the production method and feedstock.
What are the environmental benefits of SATF?
SATF can reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by 60–80% compared to conventional jet fuel, depending on the feedstock used.
Is SATF currently in operational use?
Yes, the U.S. Air Force and Navy have initiated pilot programs using SATF in training and operational missions.
Sources: Lockheed Martin, U.S. Department of Defense, ASTM International, IATA, CSIS
Photo Credit: Lockheed Martin
Defense & Military
Hermeus Unveils Ramjet-X Air-Launched High-Mach Test Vehicle
Hermeus introduced Ramjet-X on Sept 9, 2026, an air-launched test vehicle for high-Mach flight testing, backed by a $219M DIU contract.
Hermeus unveiled Ramjet-X on September 9, 2026, introducing an expendable, air-launched test vehicle designed to lower the cost of high-Mach flight testing. The system will be deployed from the company’s reusable Quarterhorse Commercial-Aircraft, eliminating the need for traditional rocket boosters to reach ignition speeds.
In a press release issued on September 9, 2026, the venture-backed defense aviation company detailed its plans to offer “Flight Test as a Service” (FTaaS). By utilizing the Quarterhorse as a reusable first stage, Hermeus aims to provide a scalable platform for testing payloads, sensors, and materials in sustained high-Mach environments. Integrated vehicle testing for Ramjet-X is scheduled to begin in 2027.
Architecture and testing strategy
Ramjet engines require significant initial speed to ignite and operate effectively. Historically, this has necessitated the use of expensive, expendable rocket boosters for each test flight. Hermeus is bypassing this requirement by using its Quarterhorse aircraft to carry and launch Ramjet-X at high speeds and altitudes.
According to reporting by Aviation Week, the Quarterhorse program is advancing through a series of iterative vehicles, including the Mk 2.1, Mk 2.2, and Mk 2.3 variants. The Mk 2.1 recently demonstrated the ability to release a missile-like store during flight, validating the air-launch concept required for Ramjet-X. The follow-on Mk 2.2 is expected to reach speeds of Mach 2 or greater.
“High-speed flight testing is extremely expensive, and you don’t get many shots at it,” Hermeus Chief Executive Officer Zach Shore stated in the press release. “Ramjet-X gives us a way to put new systems into sustained high-Mach environments without building an expensive one-off test program every time.”
Corporate expansion and defense contracts
The Ramjet-X announcement follows a period of significant growth for Hermeus. Earlier in 2026, the company achieved a post-money valuation of $1 billion and relocated its headquarters from Georgia to El Segundo, California, according to Axios. High-temperature structures for Ramjet-X are currently in development at the new El Segundo facility, while ramjet engine testing is underway at the Hermeus HEAT facility in Jacksonville, Florida.
The company’s high-speed testing initiatives are supported by the United States Department of Defense. On May 28, 2026, Hermeus received a $159 million Contracts extension from the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), bringing the total ceiling value of the award to $219 million. This funding supports the development of a high-speed, uncrewed testbed aircraft.
Shore noted in the company statement that combining speed, sustained flight, and scalability into a single system lowers the barriers to gathering data in extreme conditions. This architecture is intended to accelerate development timelines for both Hermeus and its commercial and government customers.
AirPro News analysis
We view the Ramjet-X program as a pragmatic stepping stone in Hermeus’ broader ambition to field operational hypersonic aircraft. By decoupling the high-Mach testbed from the launch vehicle, the company is adopting a modular approach that mitigates the financial risks associated with expendable rocket boosters. If the 2027 integrated flight tests are successful, the FTaaS model could disrupt the current high-speed testing market, which is currently bottlenecked by limited infrastructure and high per-flight costs. The recent $219 million DIU contract ceiling indicates strong institutional interest in expanding domestic high-Mach testing capacity.
Sources: Hermeus
Photo Credit: Hermeus
Defense & Military
Netherlands Signs Intent to Procure Saab GlobalEye AEW&C
Netherlands and Sweden sign a Letter of Intent for a Dutch Saab GlobalEye aircraft, with delivery expected in 2031.
The Netherlands Ministry of Defence and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) signed a Letter of Intent on September 10, 2026, for the Dutch procurement of a Saab GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft. The agreement establishes a framework for the Netherlands to build an independent long-range surveillance capability while contributing to a shared operational pool with the Swedish Air Force.
In a press release issued on September 10, 2026, Saab AB confirmed the agreement, noting that a formal contract and firm order have not yet been finalized. The procurement aligns with a broader North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) initiative to replace the alliance’s aging Boeing E-3A Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) fleet, which is scheduled for retirement in 2035.
Transitioning from the E-3A Sentry to GlobalEye
The Dutch military currently relies on the NATO E-3A Sentry fleet for airborne surveillance. The acquisition of a dedicated GlobalEye will allow the Netherlands to operate more independently. According to the Netherlands Ministry of Defence, Dutch crews are scheduled to begin training on Swedish GlobalEye aircraft in 2028, with the Delivery of the Dutch aircraft expected in 2031.
The Dutch aircraft will join a shared pool with three Swedish GlobalEye aircraft. Swedish Minister for Defence Pål Jonson stated that the agreement deepens defense cooperation between the two nations, allowing them to take on greater responsibility for collective European defense.
The GlobalEye system utilizes a Bombardier Global 6000/6500 business jet airframe equipped with Saab’s Erieye Extended Range (ER) active electronically scanned array (AESA) Radar-Systems. The system is designed to track air, maritime, and land targets at extended ranges.
Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab, highlighted the strategic value of the platform for the region:
“The system will provide enhanced situational awareness and early warning capabilities across multiple domains, while also strengthening NATO’s ability to operate in an increasingly complex security environment. GlobalEye will enable the Netherlands to detect threats earlier, respond faster, and strengthen both national and collective defence.”
NATO’s shifting airborne surveillance strategy
The Dutch Letter of Intent follows a July 7, 2026, agreement among 11 NATO allies, including the Netherlands and Sweden, to jointly procure up to 10 GlobalEye aircraft. This joint procurement is intended to replace the 14 Boeing E-3A Sentry aircraft that have been in service since 1982.
The selection of the Saab GlobalEye represents a pivot in European defense procurement. In November 2025, European NATO partners canceled plans to acquire the Boeing E-7A Wedgetail. The cancellation occurred after the United States Air Force removed the E-7A from its fiscal 2026 spending plan, prompting European nations to prioritize investment in European aerospace industry solutions.
AirPro News analysis
We view the Dutch commitment to the Saab GlobalEye as a critical step in solidifying Europe’s defense industrial base. The collapse of the Boeing E-7A Wedgetail procurement for European NATO members created a vacuum that Saab has successfully filled. By establishing a shared pool of AEW&C assets between the Netherlands and Sweden, European Air-Forces are moving toward a more integrated, interoperable surveillance network. This model reduces the financial burden on individual nations while maintaining the continuous airborne early warning coverage required in the current geopolitical environment.
Sources: Saab
Photo Credit: Saab
Defense & Military
Kawasaki Heavy Industries and EdgeCortix Sign AI Defense Deal
Kawasaki Heavy Industries and EdgeCortix ink a multi-year deal to develop edge AI systems for aerial defense platforms.
Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. and EdgeCortix Inc. have signed a multi-year teaming agreement valued at several million dollars to develop next-generation AI systems for aerial defense platforms. Announced on September 8, 2026, the partnership aims to embed low-latency, energy-efficient AI computing directly onto aerospace mission systems.
According to a press release issued by EdgeCortix, the initial program scope will run from 2026 to 2028. The collaboration focuses on enabling real-time sensor fusion, object recognition, and threat assessment at the point of data generation, reducing the reliance on tactical data links in contested airspace.
Integrating AI into constrained aerospace environments
The joint development targets a critical challenge in modern aerial defense: processing massive amounts of sensor data in environments with strict power and thermal limitations. By processing data at the edge, the systems allow aircraft and uncrewed platforms to operate effectively even when communication networks are bandwidth-constrained or degraded by electronic warfare.
The program will integrate EdgeCortix’s proprietary technology stack alongside the systems engineering expertise of the Defense & Aerospace Business Division at Kawasaki Heavy Industries. The hardware and software integration includes the EdgeCortix SAKURA-II artificial intelligence coprocessor, the MERA compiler and software framework, and the company’s Dynamic Neural Accelerator architecture.
“Next-generation aerial defense platforms will require substantial AI computing capability within tightly constrained power, thermal and operational envelopes,” said Dr. Sakyasingha Dasgupta, Founder and CEO of EdgeCortix Inc. “By combining Kawasaki’s deep aerospace and systems engineering expertise with our chiplet-based AI architecture and MERA software platform, we intend to accelerate the development of intelligent, adaptive and energy-efficient mission systems.”
Recent validations and program timeline
The initial phase of the strategic program encompasses technology development, feasibility studies, system integration, and the creation of prototype platforms. The agreement represents a significant commercial milestone for the Kanagawa, Japan-based AI firm, expanding its footprint in the defense sector.
EdgeCortix enters the Kawasaki Heavy Industries partnership following a series of successful technology validations by United States government entities. On June 30, 2026, the company received a Success Memorandum from the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) after demonstrating the SAKURA-II platform in flight with the U.S. Air Force. Earlier in the year, on January 6, 2026, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) validated the same accelerator for radiation resiliency, clearing the hardware for potential use in orbital and lunar missions.
AirPro News analysis
We view this teaming agreement as a strong indicator of the aerospace industry’s shift toward edge computing. As aerial platforms generate increasingly unmanageable volumes of high-fidelity sensor data, transmitting that information back to ground stations or command aircraft for processing introduces latency and exposes tactical networks to interception or jamming.
By partnering with a specialized edge AI firm rather than relying solely on traditional defense prime contractors for computing architecture, Kawasaki Heavy Industries is positioning itself to field autonomous and semi-autonomous systems capable of localized, real-time decision making. The recent validations of EdgeCortix hardware by the U.S. Air Force and NASA likely provided the technical de-risking necessary for Kawasaki to commit to a multi-year integration program.
Sources: EdgeCortix Inc.
Photo Credit: EdgeCortix Inc.
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