“ JOINING THE RAF WAS ONE OF THE BEST DECISIONS I HAVE EVER MADE ”
ON THE JOB AREA RADAR CONTROLLER
SIMON
Simon has served in the RAF for 8 years as an Air Operations ( Control ) Officer . He is currently working as an Area Radar controller at RAF ( U ) Swanwick in Hampshire .
“ Before being posted to RAF ( U ) Swanwick I had previously completed tours in Air Traffic Control towers at RAFC Cranwell and RAF Brize Norton . Here at Swanwick I work alongside my civilian counterparts in providing air traffic services to both Civil and Military aircraft across the country . As an Area Radar Controller , my first priority is assisting aircraft responding to an airborne security incident . That pressure of getting the aircraft to where they need to be without delay is the most exhilarating part of the job . At RAF ( U ) Swanwick we help secure UK skies , 24 hours a day , every day of the year . The training that has been provided is among the best in the World and gives me the skills I need to work quickly and accurately to help aircrew complete their mission . On a day to day basis , I co-ordinate military flying across the entire UK airspace ensuring a safe passage is provided with minimal impact on civilian air traffic . I also provide services to aircraft wishing to conduct air-to-air refuelling as well as foreign military aircraft transiting UK airspace . The opportunities given by serving in the RAF have been brilliant . I have deployed to the Falkland Islands but also supported multi-national exercises in this country working alongside the Army in a tactical environment . I also play football for the Officers ’ Football Team which has taken me most recently to Bulgaria to play in their National Stadium . Outside of work I get the chance to try numerous sports including skiing and sailing all while on duty . Joining the RAF was one of the best decisions I have ever made , the opportunities available are what sets this job apart .”
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