Weapons Systems Officer (WSO) Royal Air Force | Page 3

FLYING ROLES

Whatever you end up flying you will streamed initially to 1 of 3 subspecialisations: Air Battle Manager( ABM); Navigator( NAV); or Sensor Operator( SO). You will be able to offer your preference, but streaming will be based upon operational requirements and your airborne ability to manage complex sensors and weapons.
You may specialise in that aircraft type throughout your career or may take the chance to transfer to other aircraft and mission types. You will become an expert in Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance( ISTAR) tasks, and deliver effect in combat zones and the wider battlespace across the world.
As an ABM on E-7 you will give command and control above the battlespace
using your rapid decision-making skills to direct aircraft from the air using your
multi-role electronically scanned array( MESA) and other electronic sensors.
As a NAV you will use your knowledge of air navigation speed, distance, time and fuel challenges. You may become a traditional flight deck navigator or an electronic systems expert with command of the mission and weapon release, whilst managing your crew of highly capable Weapon Systems Operators( WSOps).
As a SO you will use your aviation skills to control the electronic systems and guide weapons to target from a Remotely Piloted Air System( RPAS) like the MQ-9B Protector RG1. You will be crewed with a Pilot to operate the aircraft
to give worldwide Air Power effects. SIP – O – WSO Page 3