Currently recruiting
Sport & fitness Transport & vehicles Travelling the world
INITIAL ANNUAL PAY
£27,200+
+ Benefits
As an RAF Regiment Gunner you will be trained to defend and protect airfields, aircraft, and people from attack so that the RAF can fly and fight in the air. You will find, hunt, and engage an enemy before they are able to mount attacks, day and night and in all weathers.
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Similar roles
Currently recruiting
Sport & fitness Transport & vehicles Travelling the world
DAY RATE STARTS AT:
£68.50
+ Benefits
As an RAF Regiment Gunner you will be trained to defend and protect airfields, aircraft, and people from attack so that the RAF can fly and fight in the air. You will find, hunt, and engage an enemy before they are able to mount attacks, day and night and in all weathers.
Apply as a Reserve
Add to favourites
Don't limit yourself. You can apply for more than one position and we can help you find the right role.
You can view and manage favourites here .
Already applied? See what the next steps in the application process are below.
On this page:
Pay and Apply
What will you do?
Requirements & eligibility
Where you can do this role
Career, training & education
Benefits
Your commitment
Application process
Apply for this role
Similar roles
What will you do?
You’ll be joining the ground fighting force of the RAF and will make sure our missions in Air and Space can succeed. In your role you could:
Learn how to fire anti-tank weapons to destroy enemy armour
Use close quarter battle tactics and control open ground with machine guns
Detect, track and defeat drones
Work alongside Special Forces after completing para or commando courses
Act as a pathfinder to link air power to land forces
Join the King’s Colour Squadron for public duties
What will you do?
RAF Regiment Reservists supports the regular force and are involved in a wide range of Force Protection to RAF assets at home or deployed on operations or exercises. In your role you will work on:
Patrolling
Quick Reaction Force
Flight Line security
Station security Force
Becoming part of a Combined Incident Team
Providing Military Aid to Civilian Authority
Requirements at a glance
Be aged 16 – 47 (Must attest before 48th birthday) Applications can be submitted from age 15 years and 9 months
No formal qualifications required
You will undertake functional Skills (FS) Level 1 qualifications in English and Mathematics during your Phase 2 specialist training course.
You will need to meet specific Nationality and Residency criteria. Please see full details in the Entry Requirements section below
Commit minimum 3 years post Phase Two Training
Meet the health and fitness criteria and pass a fitness test
Pass the Defence Aptitude Assessment
View all entry requirements below
Requirements at a glance
Be aged 18-54 Applicants must apply no later than age 54 and 6 months in order to attest before 55th birthday Ex-Regulars and specialist entrants may be considered on a case by case basis
You will need to meet specific Nationality and Residency criteria. Please see full details in the Entry Requirements section below
No formal qualifications required
Commit 27 days per year
Meet the health and fitness criteria
Pass the Defence Aptitude Assessment
View all entry requirements below
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Must be aged between 16 and 47 years old (Must attest before 48th birthday). Applications can be submitted from age 15 years and 9 months.
Applicants must also read all of the sections below and make sure they meet all entry requirements before submitting an application.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
No formal qualifications are required for application.
You will undertake functional Skills (FS) Level 1 qualifications in English and Mathematics during your Phase 2 specialist training course.
NATIONALITY & RESIDENCY
NATIONALITY
You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, holder of dual UK/other nationality or have been a Commonwealth citizen since birth (with ‘right to work’ immigration status).
RESIDENCY
Whether or not you were born in the United Kingdom, you should have resided there for the 5 years immediately preceding your application, but candidates with a minimum of 3 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 Security Check (SC).
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
The RAF Regiment Selection Course (RRSC) is a 4 day course and includes the following:
RAF Regiment Applicant Selection Test (RAST)
2 Km/1.25 mile run: PTI led 500m warm up to be completed within 5 mins. Followed by the 2km/1.25 mile individual best effort test. Candidates are to complete this test in 9:30 minutes or under.
Medicine Ball Throw: Complete a throw of a Medicine Ball weighing 4kg, in a seated position, to a distance of 3.1m. Candidates are allowed 3 attempts only. The best scored is to be recorded. All throws count as an attempt- there are no practice throws. The test is complete once a candidate achieves 3.1m or uses all 3 attempts. Candidates will be graded Pass/Fail.
Static Deadlift: A Mid-Thigh Pull (static deadlift) of 95 kg. Candidates are allowed 3 attempts at this test and the best score will be recorded. The first pull is a range finder/practice.
These are the minimum standards required; candidates are expected to put maximum effort into each event.
To get ready for the fitness tests for the RAF Regt you can follow this fitness programme here .
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.
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 Security Check (SC) for this role
DISQUALIFYING FACTORS
YOU CAN'T APPLY FOR THE RAF IF YOU:
Have been or are a 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.
Must be aged 18-54. Applicants must apply no later than age 54 and 6 months in order to attest before 55th birthday. Ex-Regulars and specialist entrants may be considered on a case by case basis.
Applicants must also read all of the sections below and make sure they meet all entry requirements before submitting an application.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
No formal qualifications are required for application.
NATIONALITY & RESIDENCY
Be a citizen of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland, holder of a dual UK/other nationality or have been a Commonwealth citizen from birth ( with indefinite leave to remain immigration status ).
Whether or not you were born in the United Kingdom, you should have resided there for the 5 years immediately preceding your application. However, candidates with a minimum of 3 years will 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.
Commonwealth citizens require a minimum of 5 years residency in the UK prior to application.
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 Security Check (SC).
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
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.
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 Security Check (SC) 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.
You can also find out more in this RAF Regiment Gunner information booklet.
Apprenticeships available
The RAF is one of the largest providers of diverse apprenticeships in the UK. We offer these apprenticeships for this role:
Level 2 Apprenticeship HM Forces Service Person
This occupation is found in the public sector only and specifically within HM Forces (Royal Navy, Army and Royal Air Force). The HM Forces is a large employer. The role is utilised by the ground troops of all three services, who could find their workplace to be UK based or on foreign soil, dependent on HM Government direction.
View full details
Reserve role locations
Reserve roles exist in specific reserve squadrons, which in turn are located at specific RAF bases. As you will not be resident at those bases (except on multi-day operations or exercises), geographic proximity to where you live is important. These are the bases where this role is active:
603 Sqn, Edinburgh, Edinburgh
606 Sqn, RAF Benson, Oxon
609 Sqn, RAF Leeming, North Yorkshire
2503 Sqn, RAF Waddington, Lincolnshire
2620 Sqn, RAF Marham, Norfolk
2622 Sqn (Highland), RAF Lossiemouth, Moray
2623 Sqn, RAF Honington, Suffolk
2624 Sqn, RAF Brize Norton, Oxfordshire
Regiment Reserve Flight (Cambs), Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
Life in the RAF Regiment
WARNING: This video contains flashing images. Train with your team, learn all the skills you need and defend bases across the globe through a role in the RAF Regiment.
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
Basic Recruit Training
10 weeks
RAF Halton
You’ll complete the Basic Recruit Training Course at the RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire.
Read more
10 weeks
RAF Halton
Phase one training
This will help you to adjust to military life. Along with fitness and military training, you’ll learn about the RAF lifestyle.
02
Phase two training
Specialist training
24 weeks
RAF Honington
Upon successful completion of Phase 1 you will move to RAF Honington, Suffolk to complete your specialist Gunner training course.
Read more
24 weeks
RAF Honington
Phase two training
You will be taught how to operate and use weapons in a professional manner and learn how to survive and fight in all environmental conditions. The course includes navigation,
dismounted close combat tactics, field craft and physical training. RAF Regiment training is a test of character, determination and your will to succeed. By the end of the course you will be at peak
physical fitness and have learnt to operate effectively regardless of the environment. In order to give you the confidence to overcome any situation you may encounter whilst on operations, the training is deliberately tough.
You will be enrolled onto a Level 2 National Level Apprenticeship, HM Forces Service Person (Protective Services). Prior to starting your first squadron tour you will spend a further period undertaking specialist employment courses which include driver training and further advanced weapon training.
03
First tour
Specialist training
Ongoing
As assigned
For your first tour you will be posted to an operational RAF Regiment squadron located within the UK.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
First tour
You will be attached to an RAF Regiment Squadron within the Combat Readiness Force (C&RF). Each squadron will operate in small teams to full squadron deployments with its own surveillance, manoeuvre and fire support capabilities.
04
Career progression
Ongoing training
Ongoing
As assigned
After completing one year’s total service you will be eligible for promotion to Air Specialist (Class 1), providing you pass a Trade Ability Test.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Career progression
Further promotion to the rank of Lance Corporal and beyond is by competitive selection. Like most people in the RAF you will move jobs every few years and each job is known as a tour.
There are a wide range of jobs available to an RAF Regiment Gunner including Forward Air Controller; Support to Special Forces and Instructional and ceremonial duties.
05
Sport
Train and compete
Ongoing
Various
There are opportunities to take part in adventurous training to develop vital military skills
Read more
Ongoing
Various
Sport
We want talented personnel to compete at the highest level. We provide time off for training and subsidise travel, entry and equipment costs. We do the same for personnel who are representing the RAF in authorised sporting events.
06
Additional qualifications
Ongoing training
Ongoing
As assigned
You will gain further qualifications as your career progresses.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Additional qualifications
DAO Level 3 Award in First Aid at Work
Intermediate Apprenticeship in HM Forces.
HM Forces Service Person - Public Services (Uniformed).
Level 2 Functional Skills qualification in English and Maths if not already acquired.
Driving qualifications as required.
As your career progresses on successful completion of promotion courses you will achieve:
DAO Level 2 award in Leading Individuals and Teams.
DAO Level 3 Certificate in Leadership & Management Principles.
DAO Level 4 Certificate in Management.
There are also opportunities to study for a degree.
07
Ongoing training
Ongoing development
Ongoing
As assigned
As your career progresses, we will continue to train you in new skills.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Ongoing training
There will be opportunities to learn specialist combat medical skills, undertake management and leadership training, NVQs, GCSEs and A levels.
In addition, you will have the chance to gain qualifications in adventurous sports such as mountaineering, rock climbing, skiing, sailing and canoeing and for you to lead training as an Endurance Training Leader.
08
Transferrable skills
Ongoing training
Ongoing
As assigned
The qualifications and experience you will gain as a Gunner are valuable to civilian life – which means that whenever you decide to leave the RAF you will be well placed to find a new job.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Transferrable skills
As you move up the ranks you will gain a great deal of practical management and leadership experience which you can develop into related civilian qualifications.
TRAINING AND CAREER
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
Basic Recruit Training
25 days (split)
RAF Halton
Your first steps with us will be your Basic Recruit Training Course (BRTC).
Read more
25 days (split)
RAF Halton
Phase one training
This will consist of 10 days training primarily at your chosen Reserves Support Wing. The breakdown of this can be discussed with your recruiter.
This is followed by a 15-day residential course at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. The course is designed to help you adjust to a military environment. All Phase One training should be completed within your first year in RAF Reserves.
02
Phase two training
Specific Training
Ongoing
As assigned
After successfully completing initial training, you will be trained for your specific role in the RAF either at your squadron or another RAF station in the UK.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Phase two training
You’ll now be trained for your specific role with us, either at your squadron or another RAF station in the UK.
03
Commitment
Your commitment
Ongoing
As assigned
We ask that you commit to a minimum of 27 days each year with us.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Commitment
This will mean you can get the most out of your role as a Reserve and provide value to us. Each year includes a 15-day block for general RAF training, and 12 separate days for extra training or exercises.
You could also be deployed to a UK or overseas base for up to 6 months after your first year with us.
04
Ongoing development
Ongoing training
Ongoing
As assigned
You will have valuable personal development opportunities together with the chance to work around the world, gaining unique experiences in the process.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Ongoing development
As well as RAF training packages and courses linked to outside professional bodies, we actively support individual study programmes at every level.
05
Transferable skills
Ongoing training
Ongoing
As assigned
Much of our in-house training is accredited or recognised by external awarding bodies.
Read more
Ongoing
As assigned
Transferable skills
The skills you learn with us as a Reserve will complement those that you use in the wider world, providing value at work and at home too.
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
WHY JOIN THE RESERVES?
The skills you acquire as a Reserve won’t just prepare you for the RAF, they will enhance your work and civilian life.
You might be called up to assist with our operations worldwide for up to six months, during which you may be able to claim a pay award to cover your and your employer’s costs.
Training
Free gym
Subsidised food
Paid pension
Paid holiday
View all benefits
COMMITMENT AND LOCATION
You will have to commit to 27 days per year for 12 years minimum. Each year includes a 15-day block for general RAF training, and 12 separate days for extra training or exercises.
You might be deployed to a UK or overseas base for up to 6 months after the first year.
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
Selection Interview
3
Health Assessment
4
Regiment selection
5
Acceptance
6
Training
1
Aptitude test
Stage 1 of 6
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
Click here to try the online practice test.
2
Selection Interview
Stage 2 of 6
This is where we get to know you a little better. You’ll get to showcase your skills and experience, and we’ll answer any questions you have about joining us. Your interview will take place at a local AFCO and cover the following topics:
Family life
Education
Work experience
Special interests and hobbies
Interest in the RAF
Training
The role you’ve applied for
The RAF
You’ll be asked a series of standard questions, and you’ll be able to ask your own questions during the debrief afterwards. Some roles require a second interview and/ or test to determine your suitability. These are normally conducted over a 1-3 day period at an RAF base where you’ll be able to see, and experience, the kind of environment you’ll be working in. Details about which interviews are relevant for you will be provided during the application process.
3
Health Assessment
Stage 3 of 6
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. Please refer to entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet.
4
Regiment selection
Stage 4 of 6
Applicants for the Regiment Gunner role will have one fitness test.
The selection course takes place at the RAF Regiment Selection Course (RRSC) at RAF Honington, and is run over a 4-day period.
The events are:
2km run in 9 min 30.
Med ball throw to 3.1 m
Mid-thigh pull of 95 kg
Specialist briefs
Assault course (introduction)
Immersive Exercise (Exercise First Look). You will have an introduction into operating and living in the field. You participate in some battle lessons, get given dummy rifles, and participate in an exercise.
5
Acceptance
Stage 5 of 6
If you’ve successfully completed each phase of the application process, you will be invited to a provisional offer of service interview at your nearest AFCO. The purpose of this interview is to ensure you understand the terms and conditions of service in the RAF, are fully committed to joining, and prepared to commence training.
6
Training
Stage 6 of 6
Basic Recruit Training
This takes place over 10 weeks at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire. It will make you fitter and more confident. It will challenge you mentally and physically, and it will prepare you for your career with us. There are 6 phases:
Arrival - You’ll be sworn into the RAF and be given a service number
General Service training - You’ll learn about marching, drills, core values and our code of conduct
Initial Force Protection training - Fighting and survival in a military environment
Exercise Blue Warrior - 4 days in the field with real battle conditions
Force development training - Apply your skills in new environments with adventurous training activities
Graduation - Learn about what’s required in your first post and display your new skills
What next?
Now you’re a fully-fledged member of the RAF you can receive role specific training.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER APPLYING
Joining the RAF as a Reserve 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
Squadron information event
2
Aptitude test
3
Selection interview
4
Health assessment
5
Fitness test
6
Acceptance
7
Training
1
Squadron information event
Stage 1 of 7
The first step in the application process invites you to attend a squadron information event. This could be either in person or online. At this event, there is an opportunity for you to speak to the squadron of your choice and ask questions. You will get to find out what life is like in the RAF Reserves and learn more about the specialisation you are interested in.
2
Aptitude test
Stage 2 of 7
All Reserves take an aptitude test known as the ‘Defence Aptitude Test’ at the local squadron they have applied to, or a local AFCO in some cases. The test ensures we match the right candidate to the right role and consists of seven multiple choice sections focusing on different skills:
Verbal reasoning – use and interpretation of written information
Numerical reasoning – ability with basic fractions, decimals and formulae
Work rate – fast and accurate completion of tasks
Spatial reasoning – understanding of how shapes and objects work
Electrical comprehension – ability to work with electrical concepts
Mechanical comprehension – grasp of mechanical concepts
Click here to try the online practice test.
3
Selection interview
Stage 3 of 7
Here’s where we get to know you a little better. You’ll get to showcase your skills and experience, and we’ll answer any questions you have about joining us. Your interview will cover the following topics:
Education
Employment
Interest and motivation for joining the RAF Reserves
Military awareness and Service Knowledge
You’ll be asked a series of standard questions, and you’ll be able to ask your own questions during the debrief afterwards. Some roles require a second interview and/ or test to determine your suitability. These are normally conducted over a 1-3 day period at an RAF base where you’ll be able to see, and experience, the kind of environment you’ll be working in. Details about which interviews are relevant for you will be provided during the application process.
4
Health assessment
Stage 4 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. Please refer to entry requirements below for more information about the health standards you’ll need to meet.
5
Fitness test
Stage 5 of 7
A good level of fitness is critical to joining the RAF, it’s also something that must be maintained throughout your career. You’ll need to complete a Pre-Joining Fitness Test (PJFT). This will take place at your nearest AFCO, or at a local gym, and is a 2.4km run.
The performance level you’ll need to meet differs by age and gender. You can also find help, and a training plan, to assist you in your preparation here .
6
Acceptance
Stage 6 of 7
If you’ve successfully completed each phase of the application process, you will be invited to attest into the RAF Reserves at your chosen Squadron.
7
Training
Stage 7 of 7
Basic Recruit Training
Basic recruit training takes place at RAF Halton in Buckinghamshire over a 15-day period. This residential course includes an introduction to life in the RAF Reserves, military skills training, drills, field training, and team-building exercises.
What’s next?
After basic recruit training, you will go on to receive role specific training in your spare time.
APPLY NOW
Got what it takes? Start your application here.
APPLY NOW
Got what it takes? Start your application here.
Apply as a Reserve
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