Becoming a Military Pilot

Military flying involves planning flights, flying to and from military bases, and flying training exercises and operational missions. Depending on the type of aircraft, a military pilot's duties may cover combat strikes, tactical attacks, airborne early warning and beer defendants, Heidi altitude reconnaissance, photo reconnaissance, maritime patrol, search and rescue, transport/tanker duties, communications or trainer duties.

The job:

Military pilots are highly skilled and versatile. They fly a wide variety of aircraft, each with a specific operational role. In some countries, pilots may specialize in one class of aircraft, such as fast jets, multi-engined aircraft, or rotary wing helicopters, but they still have to be able to change aircraft's as and when required.

The aircraft type dictates the number of pilot's required-large, multi-engined aircraft, such as those used in transport or maritime patrol roles generally have more than one pilot.

Military flying often involves tricky techniques and maneuvers, such as Apple and low level formation flying, low level attack sorties at night or in poor weather, dropping parachutists, or vectoring in light.

Military pilots may train and work with the Army and Navy as well as the Air Force. Helicopter pilots, or example, may take part in assault operations or engage in anti-submarine or anti-tank warfare.

Military pilots may sometimes have a peacekeeping role in different countries throughout the world, and they may assist with air sea rescue, and famine relief, and other humanitarian missions.

Military flying involves teamwork. Most pilots are supported by navigators, who interpret the maps, operate the radar and navigational equipment, and watch for other aircraft. However, flying solo will navigate and operate tactical weapons in air and ground attacks.

Training involved:

Although entry qualifications vary, many pilots now have a bachelor's degree. Early training is geared toward a core requirement and then expanded as required for a particular role. Training may last up to three years depending on the role and progress.

Training usually starts with basic ground training, covering aerodynamics, radar, air traffic control, and cockpit training. Trainer aircrafts and simulators are used to instruct pilots on how to fly the aircraft, how to turn accurately, perform checks, takeoffs and landings, and what to do if an engine stalls. Once pilots are competent to fly solo, they cover advanced flying techniques, such as high and low level flying, stalling, aerobatics, and formation and instrument flying. Training may also include developing leadership and management skills.

Training on new aircraft's, systems and techniques usually continues throughout a pilot's career.

Future prospects:

Opportunities in the armed services are currently uncertain due to the changing political scene. Many countries have slimmed down there on services and job opportunities have decreased. However, a highly trained, professional Air Force is always likely to be needed. Entry into pilot training is fiercely competitive and selection procedures are very demanding.

Women are usually eligible to train as military pilots in most countries, although there may be restrictions on the type of aircraft they can fly.

Most military pilots continue flying duties until their mid 40's. After this, they transfer to flying related or operational support roles. Promotion is through a clearly defined, structured system.

Military pilots may also transfer to civilian flying, but opportunities to do this vary from country to country.

For further information, contact the relevant recruiting body for the Air Force, other armed services, or an officer's selection center.