What does the term "joker fuel" refer to in formation flying?

The term "joker fuel" in formation flying specifically refers to a predetermined fuel level at which a lead change must occur. This is an important aspect of formation flying as it ensures that the flight maintains adequate fuel reserves for the mission while allowing for efficient leadership transitions. By establishing a joker fuel level, pilots can effectively manage the workload during the flight and ensure that the lead aircraft has enough fuel for continued operations or any necessary maneuvers.

Understanding the significance of joker fuel helps maintain safety and mission effectiveness. When the lead aircraft approaches this fuel level, a pre-coordinated lead change can take place, allowing for smoother dynamics within the formation and ensuring that the formation as a whole can continue to operate effectively. Thus, recognizing the joker fuel helps pilots prioritize fuel management in conjunction with tactical maneuvers.