How do you fuel only the internal tanks with external drop tanks installed?

To fuel only the internal tanks of a Super Hornet when external drop tanks are installed, the correct approach is to leave the external pre-checks out while fueling. This process allows you to bypass the external tanks, ensuring that fuel does not enter them during the refueling operation.

When fueling, the pre-checks are typically designed to assess the status and conditions of external systems. By omitting these pre-checks, the fueling system directs the flow of fuel exclusively to the internal tanks. This is important in operations where maximizing internal fuel capacity is necessary, providing a balance between weight management and operational capability.

In contrast, closing external fuel valves, using only internal fuel lines, or disconnecting external drop tanks may complicate the refueling process or not meet operational standards set for safety and efficiency. Each of those actions influences the overall fuel flow or requires additional steps that may not streamline the refueling of internal tanks specifically when external tanks are already in place. Thus, leaving the external pre-checks out is the most efficient way to achieve the desired outcome.