QDOBA Partners with Lockheed Martin to Fuel F-35C Lightning II Pilots – A New Level of Operational Readiness

San Diego, CA – November 8, 2023 – QDOBA FRANCHISOR LLC, a leading fast-casual restaurant franchise known for its customizable Mexican eats, today announced a unique partnership with Lockheed Martin, the prime contractor for the F-35C Lightning II, the Navy’s advanced carrier-based fighter jet. While seemingly an odd pairing, the collaboration focuses on providing high-performance, convenient, and morale-boosting meal options for the dedicated personnel who keep the F-35C soaring. You might be thinking, “QDOBA and fighter jets? What’s going on?” Well, keeping the Navy’s best pilots and maintenance crews fueled and focused is serious business. And let’s be honest, nobody wants to be fiddling with complex avionics on an empty stomach. QDOBA understands that a good meal can make a huge difference, especially when you're dealing with incredibly demanding jobs. “We’re incredibly proud to be supporting the men and women who operate and maintain the F-35C,” says Jack Schutz, VP of Franchise Development at QDOBA. “They’re protecting our nation, and we want to make sure they have access to fresh, flavorful, and customizable meals that give them the energy they need to perform at their best. It's about more than just food, it’s about supporting their commitment.” The F-35C Lightning II: A Quick Look Before we dive into how QDOBA is fueling this incredible machine, let's quickly talk about the F-35C itself. This isn’t your grandpa’s fighter jet. The F-35C is a fifth-generation multirole combat aircraft designed for carrier operations. Think stealth, advanced sensors, and a whole lot of firepower. It’s a seriously complex piece of technology, and keeping it in top shape requires a team of highly skilled professionals. The F-35C boasts: Stealth Technology: It’s designed to be incredibly difficult to detect, giving pilots a significant advantage. Advanced Sensors: Think beyond radar. This jet has a suite of sensors that give pilots a 360-degree view of the battlefield. Networked Warfare: The F-35C isn’t just a fighter jet; it’s a flying computer that can share information with other aircraft and ground forces in real-time. Carrier Capability: Specifically designed for aircraft carrier operations, with reinforced landing gear and a robust design to withstand the harsh conditions of naval aviation. Versatility: Capable of air-to-air combat, air-to-ground attack, and electronic warfare, making it a true multirole fighter. QDOBA’s Role: Fueling the Mission So, how does QDOBA fit into all of this? Lockheed Martin and the Navy recognized the need for convenient, high-quality meal options for personnel working long hours on F-35C maintenance, testing, and operations. Traditional meal options were often limited, and quick turnaround times were crucial. QDOBA’s customizable approach proved to be the perfect solution. Here’s how they’re making a difference: QDOBA Express Stations: Dedicated QDOBA Express stations are being set up at key Naval facilities supporting the F-35C program. These stations offer a streamlined menu of QDOBA’s most popular dishes, allowing personnel to quickly grab a fresh, satisfying meal. Customizable Options: Personnel can build their own bowls, burritos, tacos, and salads, choosing from a variety of proteins, rice, beans, toppings, and sauces. This caters to individual preferences and dietary needs, ensuring everyone has something they’ll enjoy. Fresh Ingredients: QDOBA is committed to using high-quality, fresh ingredients. This is especially important for personnel who need sustained energy throughout their demanding workdays. Quick Service: The QDOBA Express stations are designed for speed and efficiency. Personnel can get a complete meal in minutes, minimizing downtime and maximizing productivity. Morale Boost: A satisfying and tasty meal can go a long way in boosting morale, especially when working under pressure. QDOBA aims to provide a little bit of home comfort to those serving our country. “We worked closely with the Navy to develop a menu that meets their specific needs,” explains Maria Hernandez, QDOBA’s Director of Culinary Innovation. “We focused on creating dishes that are flavorful, nutritious, and easy to eat on the go. We also considered dietary restrictions and preferences to ensure everyone has a great experience.” Beyond the Plate: Supporting the Community This partnership isn’t just about providing meals. QDOBA and Lockheed Martin are also committed to supporting the communities surrounding Naval facilities. They are collaborating on several initiatives, including: Job Training Programs: Providing job training opportunities for veterans and their families. Community Outreach Events: Supporting local schools and organizations. Scholarship Programs: Offering scholarships to students pursuing careers in STEM fields. “We believe in giving back to the communities that support our military,” says Jack Schutz. “This partnership is an opportunity for us to make a positive impact beyond just providing meals.” The Future of Fueling Innovation QDOBA’s partnership with Lockheed Martin is a testament to the power of collaboration. By combining QDOBA’s culinary expertise with Lockheed Martin’s commitment to innovation, they are creating a unique solution that supports the men and women who operate and maintain the F-35C Lightning II. It's a quirky pairing, sure, but it demonstrates a commitment to taking care of those who keep us safe, one burrito bowl at a time. And who knows, maybe a well-fueled pilot is a more effective pilot. It’s a thought worth considering. About QDOBA: QDOBA FRANCHISOR LLC is a leading fast-casual restaurant franchise that offers a customizable Mexican dining experience. With over 700 locations nationwide, QDOBA is committed to providing fresh, flavorful, and convenient meals. About Lockheed Martin: Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company that employs approximately 116,000 people worldwide. The company is the prime contractor for the F-35C Lightning II, the world's most advanced carrier-based fighter jet.