Implementation of the Single Fuel Concept for the Navy's Surface Fleet: An Analysis of Long-Term Solutions
Abstract
The U.S. Navys surface fleet has been operating on two primary types of fuel for several decades, F-76for ships and JP-5 for maritime aircraft. Since the implementation of these two fuels, multiple research projects have been conducted to recommend a Single Fuel Concept (SFC), but the Navy has not changed its fuel concept. In todays environment, the Navy needs solutions to cut costs and simplify the supply chain in an effort to focus on the Great Power Competition (GPC) while being mindful of defense budget constraints. Over the past several years, the JP-5 and F-76 price differential has decreased significantly, which provides an opportunity to implement an SFC based on cost benefits. This paper conducts regression analyses on both types of fuel and predicts consumption trends for the future based on the large fleet expansion set forth by the 30-Year Shipbuilding Plan. Cost and standard pricing metrics are used to show the possible cost savings by using JP-5 as a single fuel across the fleet. Implementation of an SFC will take time, especially with a growing fleet, so a phased rollout plan was developed to recommend timeframes for introduction of the SFC while mitigating risk to the fleet. This thesis recommends immediate implementation of the SFC in a phased rollout in order to cut costs, simplify the supply chain, and provide a long-term solution to a growing logistics problem.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1164935
Entities
People
- Cody J. Kinser
- Crystal L. Kube
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School