Lockheed Martin has announced that it has received approval for the use of synthetic aviation turbine fuel (SATF) in its F-16 fighter jets and C-130 transport aircraft, as part of the company’s program to provide new energy solutions for its aircraft. SATF fuels are produced from various raw materials, such as coal and natural gas, or from renewable sources, such as used oils, agricultural residues and biomass. It should be noted that last January the company received approval for the use of SATF fuel in its F-35 fighters. SATF fuel will be used in the F-35, F-16 and C-130 at a rate of 50%, while the other 50% will be the conventional fuel used by the aircraft today. It should also be noted that earlier this year Norway used SATF fuel for the first time in its own F-35. According to Lockheed Martin, the use of SATF fuel will contribute decisively to increasing the availability of the F-35, F-16 and C-130, reduce the need for imports and reduce the environmental footprint of the aircraft.
