Synthetic Fuels Boost Mission Readiness for the F-35 Fleet

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Synthetic Fuels Boost Mission Readiness for the F-35 Fleet
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Synthetic Fuels Boost Mission Readiness for the F-35 Fleet

January 15, 2025

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F-35 Norway Capabilities
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Expanding fuel options ensures the world’s most advanced, lethal fighter jet is always mission ready.

The first flight of Norwegian F-35 fighter jets using synthetic aviation turbine fuels (SATFs) at Ørland Air Station has successfully been flown. This marks the first time Norwegian fighter jets have used such fuel, let alone in the F-35, signaling progress toward reducing emissions while maintaining mission readiness.
F-35
Photo by Ole Andreas Vekve / Forsvaret

Advancing Fuel Options for F-35 Operations
The use of SATFs, now approved for the F-35, expands operational flexibility and strengthens mission readiness. Introducing alternative fuel sources reduces dependence on traditional supply chains, ensuring resilience even in the most challenging scenarios.

Key notes:

Operational Flexibility: F-35 aircraft can now operate on synthetic fuel blends of up to 50% mixed with conventional jet fuel, depending on the source and production method.

Proven Reliability: Comprehensive testing ensures SATFs meet the rigorous performance and reliability standards required for the F-35’s demanding missions.

Energy Resilience: This advancement aligns with the Department of Defense’s goals for fuel diversification, bolstering the fleet’s ability to adapt to supply chain disruptions or regional fuel constraints.

F-35

What are SATFs?

Synthetic aviation turbine fuels are derived from both renewable and non-renewable sources, including:

Renewable sources: Waste oils, agricultural byproducts, and other sustainable feedstocks.

Non-renewable sources: Coal, natural gas, and other fossil-based materials.

SATFs provide a versatile and reliable alternative to conventional jet fuel, ensuring operational consistency without compromising performance.

 

Unmatched Air Dominance

As a cornerstone of air dominance, the F-35 is essential to maintaining strategic superiority in an evolving threat environment.

“Lockheed Martin is committed to ensuring the F-35 is always ready for any customer mission,” said Chauncey McIntosh, vice president and general manager of the F-35 program at Lockheed Martin. “Adding new fuel sources helps make this happen by diversifying the supply chain while maintaining operational excellence. As the cornerstone of the joint fleet, the F-35 will continue to lead the U.S. and allied air dominance mission for decades to come." 

With the approval of SATFs, the F-35 continues to lead the charge in innovation and readiness, ensuring allied forces remain capable of executing missions in any scenario.