CURRENTLY RECRUITING
Aircraft Gaming & computers Analysis & maths
INITIAL ANNUAL PAY DURING OFFICER TRAINING
£35,900+
+ Benefits
PAY AFTER 3 YEARS SERVICE AND PROMOTION TO FLT LT
£64,600+
+ Benefits
As a Weapon Systems Officer (WSO pronounced “Wizzo”) you will fly in and operate some of the world’s most sophisticated aircraft. You will employ electronic systems and sensors to employ weapons whilst making critical airborne command decisions.
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NEW AIRCRAFT, NEW PATHWAY
The new E-7 Wedgetail will now take direct-entry Weapon Systems Officers (WSOs) to train as Air Battle Managers. This will place WSOs (pronounced “wizzo”) at the heart of the Royal Air Force’s next-generation airborne early warning and control aircraft. Start the application process now for a career as a Weapon Systems Officer.
What will you do?
Flying will be your life as a WSO with a range of diverse roles where during training, you will be streamed across 3 pathways:
- Air Battle Manager – You will learn to 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.
- Navigator – You will enhance your basic 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 weapons release.
- Sensor Operator – You will initially learn your aviation skills through live flying then learn to control the electronic systems and guide weapons to target from a Remotely Piloted Air System (RPAS).
You will be recruited on an initial 12-year contract as a Commissioned Officer with opportunities to serve to age 60. You are free to break that commitment after serving 6 years post your first operational conversion unit (OCU). We hope you will stay, many do, enjoying the diverse, varied and exciting roles we have on offer for a full career.
Requirements at a glance
- Be aged 17.5 - 24 years old (Must enter IOT before 25th birthday)
- GCSEs at Grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 at Grade C in English Language, Maths/Application of Mathematics (Functional Skills Level 2 will be accepted) and at least three other subjects.
- In addition, a minimum of 64 UCAS points accrued from A/AS Levels (or equivalent), T-Levels, or National Diplomas (e.g BTECs/NVQs). This must be made up from a maximum of 3 qualifications, minimum of 27 UCAS points for at least one qualification.
- With a UK degree at Grade 2:2 or higher you only need Maths and English Language GCSEs (or acceptable alternatives) at a minimum of Grade 4 or Scottish National 5 Grade C in Maths and English Language.
- You will need to meet Residency and Nationality criteria and commit to 12 years of service
- Pass a Fitness test and undertake a swimming test in training
View all entry requirements below
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Must be between 17.5 and 24 years old. (Must attest before 25th birthday)
Applicants must also read all of the sections below and make sure they meet all entry requirements before submitting an application .
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
You will need GCSEs at Grade C/4 or Scottish National 5 at Grade C in English Language, Maths/Application of Mathematics (Functional Skills Level 2 will be accepted) and at least three other subjects.
In addition a minimum of 64 UCAS points which can be accrued from A/AS Levels (or equivalent), T-Levels, or National Diplomas (e.g BTECs/NVQs). This must be made up from a maximum of 3 qualifications, minimum of 27 UCAS points for at least one qualification.
If you hold a UK degree at Grade 2:2 or higher you only need Mathematics and English Language GCSEs (or acceptable alternatives) at a minimum of Grade 4 or Scottish National 5 Grade C in Mathematics and English Language.
If your qualifications are not listed, or you do not have any qualifications, please Contact Us to learn more about how you can join the Royal Air Force.
NATIONALITY & RESIDENCY
NATIONALITY
You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or holder of dual UK/other nationality..
RESIDENCY
Whether or not you were born in the United Kingdom, you should have resided there for the 10 years immediately preceding your application, but candidates with a minimum of 7 years may be considered.
If you have resided abroad for a period due to work or study, you may still be eligible on a case by case basis. This will be established during the selection process.
The Nationality and Residency requirements are the foundation of obtaining the necessary security clearance. The nationalities of your spouse or partner, and parents, are also taken into account among other factors.
There will be further pre-employment checks and you will be expected to achieve the security clearance of Developed Vetting (DV).
Employment restrictions may be imposed in the future if you are unable to achieve an increased security clearance requirement for selected placements.
Security Vetting and Nationality Considerations
RAF security policies are subject to ongoing review, which may impact the eligibility of individuals with dual nationality or direct connections to certain countries to obtain the minimum required level of security vetting. Security vetting is a mandatory requirement for all RAF personnel.
Applicants are welcome to proceed with their application to join the RAF; however, it is important to understand that permanent employment is contingent upon successfully obtaining the appropriate level of security vetting for the chosen role.
If it is determined that an applicant’s nationality or connections may prevent the granting of the required clearance, this could result in the rejection of the application. Additionally, restrictions may apply to the roles available to individuals based on nationality or dual nationality concerns, as outlined by UK government policy.
FITNESS REQUIREMENTS
You must be physically fit to complete both initial and specialist training, and to do your role effectively. Every candidate's fitness levels are tested as part of the application process.
The first of these is the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT) which takes place at a fitness centre local to you. This consists of a 2.4km (1.5m) run on a treadmill (set to zero incline)
How fit you need to be to pass this test varies on age and gender. The PJFT requirements are listed on the charts below (Male and Female).
MEN
AGE
2.4 Km Run
(Mins)
15-16
13.52
17-29
13.20
30-34
13.49
35-39
14.14
40-44
14.46
45-49
15.17
50-54
15.53
WOMEN
AGE
2.4 Km Run
(Mins)
15-16
16.22
17-29
15.48
30-34
16.14
35-39
16.44
40-44
17.22
45-49
17.57
50-54
18.34
See here for more information about a training plan
A second fitness test will take place at RAF Cranwell as part of your familiarisation visit. This includes the Multi-Stage Fitness Test (MSFT or Bleep test). Standards to achieve will be given during the visit.
RAF SWIMMING TEST
To train as aircrew in the RAF, you must be able to pass the RAF Swimming Test as follows: Swim 100 metres without rest, using any front or sidestroke. Tread water for 2 minutes. Get out of the deep end of the pool unassisted, without the use of steps or the bottom of the pool.
All personnel attempting the test must wear clothing commensurate with that worn for their normal operating activity, which for aircrew is a flying suit.
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Candidates joining the RAF must be medically fully fit, both physically and psychologically, to meet the challenges of military service, during which they will be expected to deploy, potentially at short notice, to locations world-wide that are remote from established medical care.
Certain medical conditions could preclude entry to the RAF. Further details can be found in this document.
Body Mass Index (BMI) Information
Why is BMI important?
One of the most common medical causes of delay to candidate’s applications, is falling outside the selection BMI limits. Candidates with a BMI outside the selection limitations are statistically at increased risk of injury during basic training and long-term ill health.
What is BMI?
BMI is calculated using your height and weight. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) classify a healthy BMI as being between 18.5 and 24.9. Some individuals have an elevated BMI due to a high muscle mass. To accommodate individuals with an elevated BMI (up to a maximum of 32) caused by high muscle mass, waist circumference measurements are used.
How to measure your waist circumference
Breathe normally and the waist measurement is to be taken at the end of a normal breath out. Position the tape measure midway between the bottom of the ribcage and the top of the pelvis. The tape should be snug but not compress the skin. If there is difficulty finding the bony landmarks, place the tape at the level of the tummy button.
Calculating your BMI
Calculate your BMI here
BMI Limitations for RAF Selection
Age
BMI minimum
BMI maximum
Male maximum BMI (with additional assessment)
Female maximum BMI (with additional assessment)
18 or over
18
30
32 (waist circumference less than 94cm)
32 (waist circumference less than 80cm)
16 to 17
17
27
27
27
Eyesight
Eyesight standards vary for different roles. Wearing glasses or contact lenses may be allowed, including for aircrew roles.
Health Criteria
If you are unsure about any health criteria, please continue your application and your eligibility will be assessed at the medical examination stage.
During your application, the Medical Risk Assessment that all candidates undergo is there to make sure that you are healthy enough for the intense training required by the RAF. Your application will be rejected if you fail to meet the minimum acceptable medical standard for entry. Your medical history is confidential and is not disclosed to those not authorised to hold this information.
BACKGROUND CHECKS
YOU MUST
Declare any previous spent and unspent convictions
Check if you qualify under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 through this summary
Achieve the minimum Security Clearance of Developed Vetting (DV) for this role.
DISQUALIFYING FACTORS
YOU CAN'T APPLY FOR THE RAF IF YOU:
Have been or are member of a group that stirs up racial hatred and violence
Are waiting to appear in court, or have unspent convictions. You may also have to declare spent convictions for certain roles
Misuse drugs, solvents and anabolic steroids. But each case is considered upon its own merits
Have tattoos, brands or bead implants that are obscene or offensive.
Any permanent or temporary tattoos, whether ordinarily visible or not, must not be obscene or offensive (eg, racist, anti-religion or belief, crude, overtly sexist, homophobic, drug related or of an extreme political nature). Tattoos may be worn on the side and back of the neck but tattoos on the back of the neck must not extend above the natural hairline (scalp tattoos are not permitted).
Have body piercing which causes holes that do not close up
Declare yourself to be an 'undischarged' bankrupt
Beard Policy:
Serving personnel can wear a smart, neatly-trimmed, full-set beard. The length of acceptable beards is between Grade 1 (2.5mm) and Grade 8 (25.5mm).
Usually, candidates are to be clean shaven when being fitted for their respirators in Phase One training, however other methods of creating a clean seal can be advised if this is not possible due to religious reasons.
If you don’t have any of the above, you might still be able to apply. For more information please contact us.
ROLE SPECIALISMS
Weapons Systems Officers enjoy varied and exciting careers. Here are two examples of some of the vital work that a Wizzo may do during their careers.
Rivet Joint Navigator
The flight deck is crewed by two Pilots and a Navigator who are responsible for the safe transit of the Rivet Joint throughout its strategic reconnaissance mission. The Navigator is responsible for keeping the aircraft and its systems within pin-point accuracy. They are also responsible for planning and monitoring the aircraft flight, speaking to air traffic agencies and ensuring there is enough fuel to complete the task.
Protector Sensor Operator
The Protector RPAS is flown remotely by a Pilot and WSO supported by a Mission Intelligence Coordinator. The Sensor Operator is responsible for the safe navigation of the aircraft, operating the sensor suite and, if needed, guiding weapons like Brimstone or Paveway IV to target. Operating as a 3-person crew, the WSO must be capable as operating as a team and taking command when required.
CAREER, TRAINING & EDUCATION
At any level or position your personal success is vital to make us succeed too. We are dedicated to your future, as it is essential to ours. You will receive basic and specialist training in your field and we even provide the option to pay for your education. The experience you gain with the RAF will equip you to work at the top of your field, both in the UK and overseas.
01
Phase one training
Initial Officer training
24 weeks
RAF Cranwell
Your training will commence on the Modular Initial Officer Training Course (MIOTC) where you will graduate outside the College Hall Officers’ Mess at RAF College Cranwell.
Read more
24 weeks
RAF Cranwell
Phase one training
You will be trained and assessed over 4 six-week terms that will develop your fitness, leadership and academic skills over several indoor and outdoor exercises across the UK. The course is designed to bring out your natural talents for command, leadership and management that you will use for the rest of your life. You will make friends that will also last a lifetime.
You can find out more about what to expect in this booklet . This will allow you to prepare for MIOTC as well as the OASC assessment, which is also covered in this YouTube video .
02
Phase two training
Specialist training
1.5-2 years
As assigned
Your specialist training will begin at RAF Henlow to learn about the airborne environment. You will also attend a 3-day Survive, Evade, Resist, Extract (SERE) course.
Read more
1.5-2 years
As assigned
Phase two training
Following the initial courses, you will study a comprehensive academic package covering aircraft systems, mission systems, meteorology, communications and flying regulations to prepare you for basic flying training. This training over the next 9-12 months will be a combination of live flying, utilising the Avenger aircraft at RNAS Culdrose, Cornwall, and simulators to demonstrate proficiency in managing an array of aircraft systems at Culdrose or at RAF Cranwell on 45 Squadron. Those going to E-7 Wedgetail as Air Battle Managers will fly the Phenom T1 on 45 Squadron and conduct a 14-17 week Weapons Foundation Course at RAF Shawbury, Shropshire. A 6-month Operational Conversion Unit follows on your front-line aircraft.
03
First tour
Specialist training
Ongoing
As assigned
For your first tour you will be posted to a flying station where your specialist aircraft type is based.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
First tour
You will 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.
04
Your career prospects
Specialist training
Ongoing
As assigned
You will join the RAF on an Initial Commission of 12 years.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Your career prospects
You will be selected to serve on a pension earning commission of 20 years’ service or to age 40, whichever is the later, when you are awarded 'Combat Ready' status.
Promotion to the rank of Flight Lieutenant is on a time served/satisfactory service basis 2½ years after completing IOT. Further promotion to Squadron Leader and above is by competitive selection.
05
In-service degree
Specialist training
Ongoing
As assigned
An in-service degree is available for some aircrew roles.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
In-service degree
For those considering University, a career as Aircrew can complement that academic ambition. Our free BSc in Aviation Systems Management can be studied at the UK Armed Forces Military Aviation Academy while you earn and learn with the RAF without the need for a student loan. See the brochure for details of which roles are included.
06
Transferable skills
Development
Ongoing
As assigned
The skills and experience you gain throughout your career as a WSO could directly equip you for a number of civilian jobs.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Transferable skills
These include: Remotely Operated Vehicle Sensor Operator; project manager, aviation instructor, aerial or maritime surveyor. Some WSOs use their flying knowledge, skills and experience to train as a Commercial Pilot or re-train to become Pilots within the Royal Air Force.
There are opportunities to undertake management and leadership training and you can also study for A-levels, a degree as well as University Short Courses and University Fellowships (full or part time) up to PhD level as your career develops.
WHY JOIN AS AN OFFICER?
When you become an RAF Officer, your responsibilities start from day one. You’ll be tasked with leading a team, building a sense of camaraderie, and making quick decisions. Become tomorrow’s leader. Start today.
Discover more
WHY JOIN THE RAF?
Thanks to subsidised food, travel, accommodation and free gym you get more money in your pocket.
Rent from £75p/m
Free gym
Subsidised food
Health care
World travel
Training
View all benefits
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER APPLYING
Joining the RAF takes several steps. Below is an overview of the process. The purpose of this process is for us to gauge whether you’re the right person for the RAF and for you to show us all of your skills and experiences that have made you who you are.
1
Aptitude test
2
CBAT Aptitude test
3
Health Assessment
4
Fitness test
5
OASC
6
Familiarisation visit
7
Offer of service
1
Aptitude test
Stage 1 of 7
The aptitude test has been designed to ensure you're a good fit for the role you're applying for. You'll answer six multiple choice sections which each focus on a different skill:
Verbal reasoning - use and interpretation of written information
Numerical Reasoning - ability with basic fractions, decimals and formulae
Work rate - speed and accuracy of tasks
Spatial reasoning - how shapes and objects work
Electrical comprehension - working with electrical concepts
Mechanical comprehension - grasp of mechanical concepts
You can try the online practice test here
2
CBAT Aptitude test
Stage 2 of 7
The first step in the application process is a series of Computer Based Aptitude Tests (CBAT). These tests ensure we match the right candidate to the right role. They take place over one day at the Officers and Aircrew Selection Centre at the RAF College Cranwell in Lincolnshire, and measure your ability to perform specific tasks such as:
How well you respond physically to visual information
Your ability to interpret information in two dimensions and devise a three-dimensional solution
Your ability to complete several tasks simultaneously
Your natural abilities, including deductive reasoning, spatial reasoning, work rate and concentration, and verbal and numerical reasoning
3
Health Assessment
Stage 3 of 7
You’re legally required to meet certain medical standards, and must pass an occupational health assessment to show you’re fit for military duty. As part of this assessment we will check your overall health, focusing on areas like hearing, eyesight and body mass index.
We’ll also investigate any past illnesses and screen for health issues that may prevent you from carrying out your role. View details below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet.
4
Fitness test
Stage 4 of 7
You must be physically fit to complete both initial and specialist training, and to do your role effectively. Every candidate's fitness levels are tested as part of the application process.
The first of these is the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT) which takes place at a fitness centre local to you. This consists of a 2.4km (1.5m) run on a treadmill (set to zero incline).
See here for more information about a training plan
5
OASC
Stage 5 of 7
This will be your second visit to the Officers and Aircrew Selection Centre. OASC lasts one day, but you will arrive the day before. During this time the officers will be assessing your leadership, teamwork, communication, motivation, and problem solving.
The day will end with an interview. The first half of the interview covers your achievements at school and college, in sports, your community, at work, and as a cadet, scout or guide.
The second half explores your motivation for joining the RAF – what you know about current affairs and the RAF’s role in the national and international arena, current operations the RAF is involved in and your knowledge about the RAF and the role you've applied for.
You can watch a video here that explains the OASC selection process in more detail.
6
Familiarisation visit
Stage 6 of 7
This takes place over 2 days and is designed to give you an insight into officer training. You’ll be issued with your initial kit, including your boots, attend lectures, and also repeat the fitness test taken at OASC.
7
Offer of service
Stage 7 of 7
Once you’ve successfully completed each phase of the application process you’ll be invited to a provisional offer of service interview at your nearest AFCO.
This is to ensure that you understand the terms and conditions of service in the RAF, are fully committed to joining, and prepared to commence training.
APPLY NOW
Got what it takes? Start your application here.
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