The beginning of October has brought at least 10 Pakistani attacks on oil tankers carrying fuel for NATO vehicles in Afghanistan. The NY Times reported today that fuel convoys are “sitting ducks” and as a result, have come under increasing attack. In response, U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords came out in support of bipartisan leaders of the House Armed Services Committee for urging Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates to study new ways of reducing energy use.
The U.S. government is the largest user of fuel in the country and has publicly committed to adopting the use of renewable fuels. Just this year, several test flights have already taken place using “bio” jet fuel. In addition, the military has acknowledged the vulnerability of its troops due to their dependence on fossil fuels, and last month, Biodiesel Industries announced the next phase in development of its system to create biodiesel right on military bases. This system could be built in military camps around the globe lessening the danger of U.S. troops who would no longer h
“Transporting fuel for operational use is one of the most dangerous assignments for our men and women serving in Afghanistan,” said Giffords, a member of the Armed Services Committee. “We must take immediate steps to find ways of reducing fuel use as a way of safeguarding our troops.”
“Our enemies know of our reliance on oil and they are using it to their advantage, and as a result, thousands of service members are dedicated to securing vulnerable supply lines instead of fighting the terrorists who threaten our way of life,” continued Giffords who has introduced legislation to address the issue.
http://domesticfuel.com/2010/10/06/us-fuel-convoys-under-attack-ampliefies-call-for-renewable-energy/