As Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 (TS25) ramps up across Australia, the skies above Queensland have marked a new milestone in Defence's commitment to cleaner energy with the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).
Australian and UK partners trialled the fuel technology in a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft for a special VIP flight.
SAF is a certified 'drop-in' fuel used in both military and civilian aviation around the world.
When blended with fossil-derived fuel in accordance with international standards, It requires no modifications to aircraft or fuel infrastructure and has the potential to reduce lifecycle carbon emissions by up to 80 per cent compared to fossil-derived fuel.
The SAF used on this mission, fuelling a 33 Squadron MRTT aircraft at RAAF Base Amberley, Queensland, ahead of a TS25 mission was supplied through Defence's strategic fuel partner, Viva Energy.
Director General Fuel Capability, Brigadier Mark Baldock, says Talisman Sabre provides a valuable opportunity to trial new fuel technologies in a realistic operational setting.
"This is about improving energy security. Proving the viability of alternate fuels enhances fuel resilience by diversifying our supply chains. There is also the important benefit of reducing emissions, " Brigadier Baldock said.
"Exercises like Talisman Sabre gives us a perfect opportunity to work with industry and international partners to trial next-generational fuels in ways that support capability and climate resilience."
"We are building upon our current fuel system to ensure that it is fit for the future. We are doing it in lockstep with our industry partners, our international allies, and our own people on the ground and in the air."
Flight Lieutenant Michael Que Hee, a pilot at 33 Squadron flying the mission, says that from a user perspective the switch to SAF was seamless.
"From the cockpit, there's no difference, the aircraft flies exactly the same," Flight Lieutenant Que Hee said.
"Knowing we are helping to enhance the fuel supply chain and reducing emissions just by doing our job makes it even more rewarding."
Aircraft technician Leading Aircraftwoman Tikiri Lamb involved in the VIP flight preparation, echoed the same sentiment from the tarmac.
"With the same equipment and process, it's just like refuelling with standard aviation fuel," Leading Aircraftwoman Lamb said.
"It's great knowing we are contributing to something bigger, while still doing our job the same way we always do."
SAF is made from renewable feedstocks like used cooking oil, waste fats, and pant oils. It is part of a broader effort to accelerate Defence's transition to cleaner energy in support of fuel security and resilience.
Defence's use of SAF reflects key objectives outlined in the 2024 National Defence Strategy, the Defence Net Zero Strategy, and the Defence Future Energy Strategy, driving greater energy independence, climate responsibility, and fuel security.
As Defence continues to pursue clean energy innovation, the SAF initiative at TS25 demonstrates how strategic partnerships and operational readiness can go hand-in-hand with environmental stewardship.
