ON THE JOB WEAPONS CONTROLLER
JAMES
James is working as an instructor in the School of Aerospace Battle Management ( SABM ) at RAF Boulmer , teaching Weapons Controllers ( WCs ). His previous tours have been as an operational WC at both RAF Boulmer and Scampton in the Control and Reporting Centres ( CRCs ).
“ WHAT I LIKE MOST ABOUT LIFE IN THE RAF IS HOW I FEEL THAT EVERYTHING I DO MAKES A REAL DIFFERENCE ”
“ My students range from ab-initio through to advanced students who are on the verge of qualifying for a frontline unit . It is a fantastically rewarding job and as an additional bonus , the teaching training that we receive gains a level of civilian-accredited recognition , which reflects the modern way the Royal Air Force conducts its training . The core of the job involves direct control of RAF aircraft ( mostly , but not exclusively , Fast Jets ). WCs are expected to know as much as they possibly can about tactics so that they can provide the optimal situational awareness to the aircrew and , where necessary , move them around and guide them onto targets . A CRC WC will also do their part in the Quick Reaction Alert ( QRA ) mission , controlling Typhoon aircraft in response to any potential danger to the UK . In addition to my routine tours in the UK , I have also deployed overseas , spending several months in the Middle East and working alongside a plethora of nations including the USA , Australia and Denmark . What I like most about life in the RAF is how I feel that everything I do makes a real difference . Surprisingly often I will be a part of something that will appear in the news the following day . Knowing that I was part of the team that did their job correctly and made a positive effect in the world is one of the best feelings you can have . Life in the RAF isn ’ t just restricted to work though . I have had many opportunities to develop other skills . Because of my time in the RAF I have been to Austria several times where I learnt to ski . I have also been to Germany , where I have swum competitively . I have had time to kayak , mountain bike and conduct walking expeditions . Life is never dull and if you can think of an activity that you like doing , the RAF is keen to support you doing it .”
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