[7] Early systems, as used on the Gloster Javelin, used a simple pressurising cartridge and had a poor reputation for misfires, including engine-destroying explosions.

Nevertheless, Rolls-Royce was able to demonstrate that the fuel is extremely stable and that a cannon shell could be fired through a container of it with no dramatic effect.

Isopropyl nitrate was also sold by the Turbonique company under the brand name "Thermolene" as a fuel for their line of turbine-powered "drag axles" and superchargers, during the 1960s.

The reduced availability of AVPIN is now a restriction on the continued operation of some preserved military aircraft, such as Lightnings in the UK and South Africa and some are thus being converted to electric starting.

[8][9] It has also been used as a fuel for power supply and actuation in guided weapons, notably in the British Royal Navy.