What does joker fuel refer to in flight operations?

Joker fuel is a specific term used in flight operations to denote a pre-briefed fuel state that signifies when to terminate the current event and transition into the next phase of flight. This allows pilots to effectively manage their fuel during critical operations and ensures they continue to operate within safety margins. By establishing a joker fuel level, crews can plan for mission pacing and ensure that they have sufficient fuel for subsequent phases of flight, including possible contingencies. This concept is particularly important in tactical environments, where efficient use of fuel can directly impact the overall success of a mission.