RAF to Launch Routine Operations Using Sustainable Aviation Fuel
August 16th, 2024
On August 14th, 2024, the RAF announced that their Typhoon fighter jets and Poseidon submarine hunters, operating from RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland, will begin using a blend of conventional fuel and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). SAF is a type of fuel specifically designed for use in aircraft. Itserves as a more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional jet fuel, which is typically derived from fossil fuels.
Defence Minister Lord Vernon Coaker said, “The pioneering use of sustainable fuels in routine operations shows how we’re delivering on our first priority to keep Britain secure without compromise, while addressing our carbon footprint.”
The RAF has received four million litres of blended SAF through a contract with World Fuel Services. With an additional five million litres set to be delivered in the coming months.
Aviation currently accounts for almost two-thirds of the fuel used by the UK defence sector. In 2019/20, emissions from aviation fuel combustion accounted for 35% of the Ministry of Defence’s total emissions.
While the UK Government’s Jet Zero Strategy for achieving net-zero aviation by 2050 excludes military aviation emissions. The Ministry of Defence has pledged to align its decarbonisation efforts with Jet Zero objectives. The Royal Air Force is targeting net-zero emissions by 2040.