A gas turbine engine is experiencing a high rate of corrosion in the hot section of the engine. Which of the following fuel contamination issues could be associated with this problem?

Correct Answer: Option D — High saltwater content in the fuel.

Saltwater contamination introduces sodium, which reacts with sulfur in the fuel to form sodium sulfate. This compound is highly corrosive to hot section components, causing 'hot corrosion' or sulfidation. This process rapidly destroys the protective oxide layers on turbine blades, leading to accelerated material loss and premature engine failure.