News Summary

Lockheed Martin is set to lay off 180 employees at its Greenville facility due to the U.S. Air Force not extending the F-16 Depot contract. The layoffs, affecting about 10% of the workforce, highlight the facility’s crucial role in U.S. defense operations. Despite the cuts, Lockheed Martin aims to support affected workers and continues production of next-generation F-16s for international allies. The situation reflects both the challenges and future potential for the Greenville site amidst changing military demands.

Greenville, SC – Lockheed Martin Layoffs to Hit 180 Workers Following Air Force Contract Changes

Lockheed Martin has announced that 180 employees at its Greenville facility will be laid off due to a recent decision by the U.S. Air Force not to extend the F-16 Continental United States (CONUS) Depot contract. This decision affects approximately 10% of the workforce at the facility, which employs a total of 1,800 people. The announcement was made on Monday, June 20, 2025.

The F-16 CONUS Depot contract, originally awarded in 2020, was valued at $900 million for a ten-year duration, covering maintenance for F-16 fighter jets. The Greenville site is significant as it is the only non-government depot in the United States dedicated to F-16 maintenance. This facility was established specifically to fulfill this role, underscoring its importance to both local employment and national defense operations.

In light of the layoffs, Lockheed Martin has stated its commitment to assist affected workers, offering services such as outplacement assistance and career counseling. This support reflects the company’s efforts to help employees transition during this challenging time.

Impact on the Local Workforce

The layoffs at the Greenville facility resonate deeply within the community, as they represent a considerable loss for the local workforce. The facility plays a crucial role in South Carolina’s defense industry, which not only contributes to the economy but also supports national security efforts. Congressman William Timmons has highlighted the significance of the Greenville site, emphasizing the continued demand for F-16 jets in global markets and expressing optimism for the future of the facility.

Future Prospects for the Facility

Despite the immediate impact of the layoffs, the Greenville facility remains engaged with ongoing projects. Currently, the site is involved in producing over 100 next-generation F-16s for various U.S. allies, including Slovakia, Bahrain, and Bulgaria. This active production line indicates a steady demand for the models being manufactured and showcases the importance of the facility in meeting international defense needs.

The U.S. Air Force’s decision not to extend the depot contract follows its initial five-year term. Industry analysts anticipate that modernization and structural repair requirements for the F-16 fleet will increase demand for maintenance services in the future. This expected rise might improve the outlook for the Greenville site once the F-16s require more extensive service and support.

Background on the Greenville Facility

Established as a dedicated F-16 maintenance depot, the Greenville facility has been integral to Lockheed Martin’s operational strategies. In 2019, the company relocated its F-16 production line to South Carolina to increase capacity after expanding its Texas factory. This move not only positioned the Greenville site as a central hub for F-16 operations but also illustrated Lockheed Martin’s commitment to investing in the region’s defense capabilities.

As developments continue regarding the workforce and operational strategies at the Greenville facility, both the company and the local community are navigating the challenges posed by the recent reduction in workforce. The situation remains fluid as more information develops about the future of the facility in relation to both national defense requirements and global market demands for military aviation.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Lockheed Martin Reduces Workforce at Greenville Facility
Lockheed Martin Implements Layoffs at Greenville Facility

Additional Resources

• WYFF4 News
• Wikipedia: Lockheed Martin
• Fox Carolina
• Google Search: Lockheed Martin Greenville layoffs
• Post and Courier
• Google Scholar: Lockheed Martin layoffs
• MSN Money
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Lockheed Martin Corporation
• SC Daily Gazette
• Google News: Lockheed Martin layoffs Greenville

Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE

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