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 firmâs 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.
âHe 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, â said Orlando Carvalho, executive VP of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics.
Babione will work to drive the completion of F-35âs system development and demonstration program, increase the aircraftâs 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.