On the 19^th March, a USAF Rockwell B1b Lancer strategic bomber made history when it carried out a supersonic flight powered by a fuel made up both of synthetic and of petroleum gases.

The flight marked the first time that an aircraft operated by the USAF had achieved supersonic speeds under this kind of power.

The fuel itself is presently being assessed within a wider environmentally-driven directive within the USAF. Officials are working towards ultimately, having the entire Air Force fleet powered by synthetic fuel mixtures.

"The goal is to have every aircraft using synthetic fuel blends by 2011," Major Don Rhymer stated, adding: “By 2016 we hope at least 50 percent of this fuel will be produced domestically.”

Synthetic Fuel Blend First Used in USAF B-52

The first trial of the synthetic fuel blend used on March 19^th took place in 2006, in a flight involving a USAF Boeing B-52 Stratofortress. Since that time, the same mixture has also been used by a Boeing C-17 Globemaster III.

While the measure is, in part, a cost-cutting one, there are other reasons for using the fuel too.

Major Rhymer explained:

"A lot of people are quick to point to the cost-efficiency of alternative fuel. But this innovative domestically-produced fuel will also help alleviate our dependence on foreign energy sources.”

Synthetic Fuels Offer Reduced Emissions

Synthetic fuels have been shown to offer the same performance as “conventional” ones, but with reduced levels of emissions.

"There was no noticeable difference flying with this fuel," said Captain Rick Fournier, who took part in the supersonic B1b flight.

"I would have no problem flying an aircraft using this fuel in peacetime or combat."

He added: "Using a fuel that is cheaper and cleaner ... what could be better?"

A USAF B1b Lancer hit the news earlier this month when it collided with emergency vehicles at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam.

Source – Armed Forces International’s Aviation Expert

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