Weapon Systems Officer – Royal Air Force (Regular)
RAF · On-Site
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.
Initial annual pay during officer training: £35,900+ plus benefits
Pay after 3 years' service and promotion to Flt Lt: £64,600+ plus benefits
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 at the heart of the Royal Air Force’s next-generation airborne early warning and control aircraft.
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).
Role specialisms
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 of operating as a team and taking command when required.
What happens after applying
Joining the RAF takes several steps. 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. Suitability Assessment
4. Health Assessment
5. Fitness test
6. OASC
7. Familiarisation visit
8. Offer of service
Perks & benefits
Skills required
Rapid decision-making
Leadership
Teamwork
Communication
Problem solving
Verbal and numerical reasoning
Spatial reasoning
Ability to complete several tasks simultaneously
Qualifications required
Age
Must be between 17.5 and 24 years old (must enter IOT before 25th birthday).
Education
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.
Nationality & residency
You must be a citizen of the United Kingdom or holder of dual UK/other nationality. You should have resided in the UK for the 10 years immediately preceding your application, but candidates with a minimum of 7 years may be considered. You will be expected to achieve the security clearance of Developed Vetting (DV).
Fitness
Pass the Pre-Joining Fitness Test (2.4km run) and undertake the RAF Swimming Test in training: swim 100 metres without rest, tread water for 2 minutes and get out of the deep end of the pool unassisted.
Commitment
Commit to 12 years of service.
Training you'll get
Phase one – Initial Officer Training (24 weeks, RAF Cranwell)
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.
Phase two – 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.
You will then study a comprehensive academic package covering aircraft systems, mission systems, meteorology, communications and flying regulations. Training over the next 9–12 months combines live flying in the Avenger aircraft at RNAS Culdrose, Cornwall, and simulators 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.
First tour
You will be posted to a flying station where your specialist aircraft type is based, carrying out an operational and training role which may include frequent overseas detachments.
Future prospects
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).
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.
In-service degree: 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.
Transferable skills include: Remotely Operated Vehicle Sensor Operator, project manager, aviation instructor, aerial or maritime surveyor. Some WSOs train as a Commercial Pilot or re-train to become Pilots within the Royal Air Force.
The essentials
Hours, commitment and the dates that matter.
Training provider
Delivers the training for this role and manages your application.
