- Boeing approves Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for its defence aircraft, allowing up to 50% SAF blends.
- The Royal Air Force has adopted a 50% SAF blend policy, with other NATO members likely to follow.
- Boeing has tested SAF in military aircraft since 2010 and cleared its use with civilian and military-grade fuels.
Boeing has authorised using Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in its defence aircraft, which could transform military aviation. According to the US Department of Energy, SAF, produced from recycled carbon sources like waste oils and plant residues, can cut greenhouse gas emissions by up to 94 per cent when used alone.
The new policy allows military operators to mix SAF with conventional jet fuel up to 50 per cent. The Royal Air Force’s recent policy lets all military aircraft use 50 percent SAF, and NATO members are expected to adopt similar policies soon.
Boeing’s No Technical Objection (NTO) applies to all its defence aircraft, including the F-15EX, F/A-18 Super Hornet, B-52 Stratofortress, and Air Force One. This policy means operators can now use SAF blends in these planes.
Boeing began testing SAF in military aircraft in 2010. The company initially tested the C-17 Globemaster and a supersonic Green Hornet. Boeing-approved SAF blends with civilian and military-grade fuels, including Jet A, Jet A-1, JP-8/NATO F-34, and JP-5/NATO F-44.
While Boeing has set the stage for SAF use, the speed of adoption by Air Forces remains uncertain. The total environmental impact of SAF is also unclear. However, SAF use could represent a significant step towards greener military aviation.