Weapons Systems Officer (WSO) Royal Air Force | Page 7

Foundation Tour
For your first tour you would be posted to a flying station where your specialist aircraft type is based . You would carry out an operational and training role which may include frequent overseas detachments , and which will test your training and your aircraft in what may be hostile conditions . There will be other more experienced WSOs there to whom you can turn for advice and support , but they will be relying on you as a full team member of a front-line squadron
Your Career Prospects
You will join the RAF on an Initial Commission of 12 years and will be selected to serve on a pension earning commission of 20 years ’ service or to age 40 , whichever is the later , on completion of your first OCU . Promotion to the rank of Flight Lieutenant is on a time served / satisfactory service basis 2½ years after completing MIOT . Further promotion to Squadron Leader and above is by competitive selection .
On-going Development
As a WSO , you will have opportunities for further professional development throughout your career . As well as training to fly different aircraft , there are opportunities for structured command and staff training as your career progresses .
SIP - O - WSO Page 7