Synthetic aviation turbine fuel (SATF) and other alternative fuels can extend operational reach, particularly in regions with disrupted supply chains.
“Synthetic fuels increase energy resilience and broaden the range of viable fuel sources,” said Javier Botello, associate fellow for fuel systems and aviation fuels at Lockheed Martin, in a company statement. “For the U.S. military and allied forces, this translates into greater operational reach, logistical robustness, and alignment with sustainability objectives.”
Jon Hemler, lead analyst for military aerospace and weapons systems at Forecast International, noted that alternative fuels can also reduce emissions, improve engine efficiency, and lower thermal signatures—advantages that contribute to stealth and performance.
In January 2025, the Royal Norwegian Air Force became the first to fly an F-35A Lightning II using a 60/40 blend of SATF and conventional fuel. Lockheed Martin has since certified SATF blends up to 50% for the F-35, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and C-130 Hercules.
“These are aircraft with a large global footprint,” Hemler said. “Expanding fuel compatibility supports interoperability across allied fleets.”
Boeing has also confirmed its defense aircraft can operate with SAF blends of up to 50%, following ASTM International standards, enabling both commercial and military fuel compatibility.
The U.S. Air Force’s Project FIERCE, led by the Air Force Research Laboratory, demonstrated a fully synthetic fuel—produced from captured CO₂ and water—powering an unmanned jet. This approach could allow military bases to generate fuel at the point of need, reducing reliance on long supply chains.
Hydrogen fuel cell technology is also under exploration. ZeroAvia, backed by a U.S. Department of Defense Small Business Innovation Research grant, is assessing integration into light military transport aircraft. “Hydrogen stores more energy per kilogram than jet fuel, enabling longer endurance and lower acoustic and thermal signatures,” said Val Miftakhov, ZeroAvia’s founder and CEO.
Industry and government momentum is growing. AIR COMPANY, a climate-tech startup producing jet fuel from CO₂, secured $69 million in 2024 and maintains U.S. military contracts. Meanwhile, the EU’s new mandate requires a 2% SAF minimum in jet fuel supplied at airports in 2025, increasing in future years.
Despite progress, SAF still accounts for less than 1% of total jet fuel use worldwide—about 2 million metric tons in 2025—underscoring the scale-up challenge.
