Norway has become the first country to operate its F-35 fighter jets using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) made from waste, residues and by-products.
This significant milestone was achieved at Ørland Air Base, home to the Royal Norwegian Air Force (RNoAF) 132 Air Wing, which operates two F-35A squadrons.
The test flight, which took place on January 14, 2025, saw the Norwegian F-35 jet powered by a 40% blend of SAF, derived from waste, residues, and by-products. The successful initial test highlights Norway’s commitment to both climate action and military readiness.
What are SAFs?
Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs) are a category of biofuels specifically designed for use in aviation, offering a greener alternative to conventional jet fuel. These fuels are made from renewable or recycled raw materials, such as waste oils, agricultural residues, and even algae. SAFs can also be produced from synthetic sources, including non-petroleum-based materials like coal or natural gas. The key advantage of SAFs is their potential to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuels.
By blending SAFs with conventional jet fuel, airlines and militaries can lower their carbon footprint, supporting the global push toward a more sustainable and eco-friendly aviation industry.
Technological innovation and sustainability
The Norwegian Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram described the initiative as “a historic climate initiative that can strengthen Norwegian preparedness.” This move is part of Norway’s broader goal to reduce its military’s carbon footprint, with the aim of decreasing the approximately one-third of CO2 emissions that currently come from the defense sector. SAF represents a crucial step toward achieving this target while ensuring that the military remains operationally effective.
“Using sustainable fuel can reduce emissions and strengthen supply security. The aim is to contribute to achieving climate targets while enhancing preparedness,” said Minister Gram.
Ørland Air Base is not only a hub for the RNoAF’s cutting-edge F-35 operations but also a center for innovation in military sustainability. In addition to the SAF initiative, Ørland is testing mobile hybrid systems with wind turbines and solar panels, further increasing energy self-sufficiency and operational flexibility for the armed forces.
“This serves as an excellent example of how we can combine preparedness, emissions reductions, and technological innovation,” Minister Gram said, highlighting Ørland’s role in leading the way toward greener military practices. The integration of renewable energy sources at the base aims to decrease dependence on external fuel supplies, making operations more self-sufficient and resilient.
Lockheed Martin approves use of Synthetic Aviation Fuels
The F-35 program, developed by Lockheed Martin, has been officially approved to use up to 50% synthetic aviation turbine fuels (SATF) blended with conventional jet fuel. This approval is a significant step towards diversification of fuel sources, ensuring resilience in military operations and a reduction in reliance on lengthy supply chains.
“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.”
Path to Net-Zero defense operations
Norway’s adoption of SAF for its F-35 jets is a crucial part of its larger plan to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. The Minister of Climate and Environment, Andreas Bjelland Eriksen, emphasized that the armed forces play a vital role in this ambitious goal. “Every sector must reach net zero, including the armed forces. This test program highlights the importance of technological innovation. In the long term, we aim to increase the use of sustainable fuels in aviation. The armed forces are now part of this development,” Eriksen said.
The shift to sustainable aviation fuel is seen as part of a broader effort within Norway to create a defense sector that is not only operationally capable but also environmentally responsible.
While the immediate focus is on SAF, the Norwegian government is looking into additional technological solutions to further reduce emissions and enhance energy security within the military. Minister Gram mentioned Norway’s ambitious long-term defense plan, which requires taking “responsibility for reducing climate and environmental impact while maintaining preparedness and operational capability.”
“This is not just about climate; it is also about technological development and preparedness. Local production of sustainable aviation fuel could decrease our dependence on lengthy supply chains,” Gram said.
Impact on future of Aviation
The successful integration of SAF into F-35 operations in Norway sets a precedent for other countries and militaries around the world. The UK’s Royal Air Force has already made strides in this direction, successfully conducting flights with SAF blends in its Typhoon aircraft, and aims to achieve net-zero operations by 2040, further reinforcing the global commitment to sustainable aviation.
As the F-35 continues to serve as the cornerstone of air dominance, the ability to power these aircraft with sustainable fuels could revolutionize military aviation, contributing significantly to global decarbonization efforts.
With more than 1,100 F-35 aircraft already operational worldwide, the aircraft’s adoption of SAF could serve as a catalyst for change across the aviation industry, both military and civilian. As the technology advances, it is expected that other nations will follow Norway’s lead in adopting cleaner, more sustainable fuel sources.