Is a Single Fuel on the Battlefield Still a Viable Option?
Abstract
The plan for petroleum support in CENTCOM was based on the single fuel on the battlefield concept. Under this concept, land based aircraft and ground vehicles and equipment would operate using a single fuel, Jet A-1. However, when the Persian Gulf War occurred, this plan was set aside. This paper investigates the reasons why the plan to use a single was not followed. Essentially, there were two reasons. One, Jet A-1, diesel fuel, and automotive gasoline were all readily available in Saudi Arabia. Two, some US units were not confident using Jet A-1 in lieu of diesel fuel. Units which used Jet A-1 did not experience any significant fuel-related problems. In fact, the Persian Gulf War further demonstrated that aviation and ground equipment can be operated using the same fuel. In addition, using the same fuel added flexibility and simplicity to petroleum support operations. Therefore, the single fuel on the battlefield concept remains a viable option and one which DOD should continue to strive to attain.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA276757
Entities
People
- Russell K. Garrett
Organizations
- Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy