Norwegian F-35 fighter jets have completed their first flight using synthetic aviation turbine fuels.
The event occurred at Ørland Air Station on the country’s west coast, demonstrating that the F-35 aircraft can operate on synthetic fuel blends of up to 50 percent.
The test marks significant “progress toward reducing emissions while maintaining mission readiness,” stated manufacturer Lockheed Martin.
Using alternative fuel sources decreases reliance on traditional supply chains, strengthening the Norwegian F-35 fleet’s capabilities to adapt to fuel constraints.
Synthetic Aviation Turbine Fuels
Synthetic aviation turbine fuels are produced from both renewable and non-renewable sources.
Renewable elements are mostly waste oils, agricultural byproducts, and feedstocks.
In contrast, non-renewable sources include coal, natural gas, and other fossil-based materials.
Previous Tests
Following the global agenda for reducing carbon emissions, the aviation and military industries seek to adopt more sustainable fuel solutions.
In April 2022, the US and the UK conducted their first-ever drone flight test powered by synthetic fuel.
The combustible for the drone was produced by combining sugar-rich materials like food waste with bacteria to create an oil-like substance, which is then converted into fuel using heat and chemicals.
During the trial, approximately 15 liters (4 gallons) of synthetic fuel powered a fixed-wing drone for a 20-minute flight in Southwest England.
In April of the same year, the UK Royal Air Force flew its first sustainably-fueled Voyager military transport aircraft.
The plane conducted a 90-minute flight using 100 percent sustainable aviation fuel made from cooking oil.
