48th LRS fuels new system Published June 27, 2014 By Senior Airman Nigel Sandridge 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- The 48th Logistics Readiness Squadron recently opened two new hot-pit fuels systems on Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England. Hot-pit refueling systems give planes the ability to land and refuel with engines still running, similar to a stock car making a pit stop in NASCAR. This feature allows for jets to reduce the time it usually takes to refuel petroleum, oil and lubricants by an estimated 66 percent. "Providing the wing with the capability to conduct hot-pit refueling for all the flying squadrons was a challenge, but our folks fought very hard to ensure this project remained a top priority and made it happen in true POL fashion," said Senior Master Sgt. Ronald Menges, 48th LRS fuels superintendent. The new systems, which cost $10,000 to build and install, were operational May 29, 2014. They increase the hydrant utilization rate by 70 percent, which now allows for all of RAF Lakenheath's jets to be refueled without having to return to the hazard pads. "The F-15C models were the only aircraft able to hot-pit refuel in the past, but thanks to the new systems and their adjustments, hot-pit refueling is applicable to all of our jets," said Senior Airman Geoffrey Yewitz, 48th LRS fixed facilities journeyman. RAF Lakenheath is home to four flying squadrons with non-stop operations, having deployed almost 100 aircraft in the past year. The new hot-pit refueling systems are just another step in modernizing to complete the mission more efficiently.