True Blue Power’s lithium-ion battery ship set has received FAA supplemental type certification for installation on legacy Gulfstream GIV, G450, GV and G550 aircraft. Developed with 101 Aviation, the approval allows operators to replace existing battery installations with a newer lithium-ion solution, with the upgrade designed to be completed in approximately half a day and supported by a four-year warranty.
The certification covers True Blue Power’s Gen5 TB50 battery system. The batteries are offered as an alternative to legacy lead-acid and nickel-cadmium units and are maintained on condition rather than through scheduled deep-cycling and capacity checks. The TB50 has an average service life of about eight years, according to 101 Aviation.
The first installation was scheduled for September 2026. The short installation window is intended to limit aircraft downtime for operators of ageing Gulfstream fleets while providing access to newer battery technology without replacing the aircraft. The STC currently applies to the GIV, G450, GV and G550; details such as the certificate number, pricing and additional fleet eligibility were not disclosed.