Jeff Babione, formerly vice president and general manager of the F-16/F-22 integrated fighter group within Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT), has been appointed as executive VP and GM of the firm’s F-35 program.
He will succeed Lorraine Martin, who will move into the role of mission systems and training deputy executive VP, in a transition that will occur on Jan. 1, 2016, Lockheed said Thursday.
Babione will be responsible for the development, production and maintenance of three F-35 variants for various military customers in the U.S. and abroad.
“He brings a deep understanding of the F-35 program, strong customer relationships and a collaborative leadership style that will ensure we continue the positive momentum of the program, †said Orlando Carvalho, executive VP of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics.
Babione will work to drive the completion of F-35’s system development and demonstration program, increase the aircraft’s production and assist the U.S. Air Force and Navy to begin initial operation of the fighter jet.
The 23-year Lockheed veteran was previously the deputy VP and GM for F-35.
