As a WSO in the ISTAR Force , your primary role could be to manage complex sensors and weapons during operational missions whilst gathering intelligence and supporting forces on the ground .
You could also be managing a mission crew of highly capable Weapon Systems Operators ( WSOps ) or even be a Flight or Squadron Commander on the previously mentioned aircraft types plus also the Shadow R1 or Voyager .
On the P-8A Poseidon , you will track submarines and enemy ships or provide long-range search-and-rescue .
On the Protector you might operate overland in support of land-based combat operations . With experience , you may become an instructor and train fellow RAF aircrew .
Like most people in the RAF you will probably change roles every few years , each role is known as a tour , and move between RAF bases in the UK and overseas to carry out your operational and training role .
As your career develops , you could also take on mission planning and ground-based staff duties . For your first few years you will probably spend periods of time overseas - from anything from a few days to a few months at a time . You could fly on a training exercise in allied airspace or carry out your role on operations near / over hostile territory .
SIP - O - WSO Page 4