RAF Non-Commissioned Aircrew
What is the work like?
RAF non-commissioned aircrew, or weapon systems operators, are non-commissioned officers (NCOs) in the air force. They fly onboard fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters. NCOs carry out air patrols over UK airspace and also take part in NATO operations and other actions around the world.
As an NCO, you would normally specialise in a particular role, for example:
- aircrew
- linguist
- acoustics operator
- electronic warfare systems.
If you are part of aircrew, you would be responsible for loading and unloading aircraft payloads, which could include weapons, supplies and troops. You would also take on extra duties according to the aircraft type and its operational role. For example, you may load and dispatch parachutists and air-dropped loads from transport aircraft. On Sea King helicopters, you might train as a winch operator for search-and-rescue operations.
As a linguist, you would work on Nimrod reconnaissance aircraft, monitoring electronic surveillance equipment and translating radio and telecommunications traffic. You would normally be fluent in two or more languages.
Working onboard reconnaissance aircraft as an acoustics operator, you would use radar and sonar to search for and monitor submarine and surface shipping movements. As well as tracking sea craft, you could take part in search-and-rescue operations.
If you specialise in electronic warfare systems, you would track friendly and enemy movements on land, sea and in the air. Your job would be to relay information to commanders about the position of units, so they can coordinate operations. You might also work on early warning defence systems.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
To apply to become part of NCO aircrew, you must:
- be aged between 17½ and 36 years old
- have five GCSEs (A-C) including English language, maths and science subject (normally physics based)
- be a British citizen or have dual British/other country nationality.
If you are going to specialise as a linguist, you will need ability in foreign languages, although a qualification is not necessarily essential.
You would also have to pass a series of selection tests and interview. These include comprehension tests, practical initiative tests, fitness tests, and a medical.
Age limits are always kept under review, so check with Armed Forces Careers Offices for latest details. The RAF advises that all candidates for NCO aircrew apply at least a year in advance of the age limits.
It is normal to sign up to the RAF for a minimum of between six and twelve years but you could extend your service beyond this.
See the RAF Careers website for more details about this career and the recruitment process.
What further training and development can I do?
You would attend a nine-week standard training course at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire, to learn essential military skills and improve your physical fitness. Afterwards, you move on to RAF Cranwell, Lincolnshire, for a ten-week leadership course, covering communication, administration and organisational skills.
Once you have competed the initial training, you move on to specialist training. The length and content of this would depend on your role. After this stage, you would be posted to an Operational Conversion Unit where you would receive hands-on training for your specific aircraft and duties, for example electronic warfare systems.
Where can I go for more information?
Tel: 0845 605 5555If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Trainee recruits earn £12,575 pro rata for the first six months.
- The salary for the remainder of the training period is £25,400.
- On completing training, salary rises to between £30,175 and £34,000.
- Senior aircrew can earn up to £43,000 a year.
There are also additional payments and bonuses linked to length of service.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
Your working hours would be flexible according to the needs of the operation or exercises.
Working as an NCO means you could be posted to RAF bases in the UK or overseas. This could be for many months at time. You would be expected to work in combat operations.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- an interest in aviation and aircraft
- excellent spoken and written communication skills
- the ability to react and think quickly under pressure
- a willingness to work anywhere in the world, sometimes in combat zones
- leadership qualities and the ability to motivate others
- the ability to accept responsibility and give and take orders
- good teamworking skills
- a practical approach to solving problems.
What opportunities are there?
There are more than 40,000 non-commissioned personnel in the RAF, with about 1,300 NCO aircrew. There is a steady requirement for NCO aircrew with the right combination of skills and qualities. At the moment, weapons systems operators are in great demand.
Once you start your aircrew flying training, you would be promoted to acting sergeant. When you begin your full duties, you would gain promotion to full sergeant. With experience and further training, you could progress to flight sergeant then to master aircrew. You may be able to go on to become commissioned RAF officer.
Free leaflets and advice are available from all Armed Forces Careers Offices.
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