Aircraft Gaming & computers Analysis & maths
INITIAL ANNUAL PAY DURING OFFICER TRAINING
PAY AFTER 3 YEARS SERVICE AND PROMOTION TO FLT LT
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.
What will you do?
- Air Battle Manager – command and control above the battlespace, directing aircraft from the air using the multi‑role electronically scanned array (MESA) and other sensors.
- Navigator – learn air navigation, fuel management and mission control, becoming a traditional flight deck navigator or an electronic systems expert.
- Sensor Operator – learn aviation skills and control electronic systems to guide weapons from a Remotely Piloted Air System (RPAS).
You will be recruited on an initial 12‑year contract as a Commissioned Officer, with the option to serve until age 60 and the ability to break the commitment after 6 years post your first operational conversion unit.
Requirements at a glance
- Age 17.5 to 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 accepted) and at least three other subjects.
- Minimum 64 UCAS points from A/AS Levels (or equivalent), T‑Levels or National Diplomas, up to 3 qualifications; at least 27 points from one qualification.
- UK degree at Grade 2:2 or higher – only Maths and English GCSEs (or equivalents) required.
- Meet residency and nationality criteria and commit to 12 years of service.
- Pass fitness test and swim test in training.
Education, nationality, fitness and health requirements
See the detailed sections in the application portal for specific criteria.
Role specialisms
Weapons Systems Officers enjoy varied careers. Examples include:
- Rivet Joint Navigator – responsible for aircraft flight planning, navigation and fuel management during strategic reconnaissance missions.
- Protector Sensor Operator – drives the Protector RPAS, operates the sensor suite and, if needed, guides weapons to target.
Career, training & education
Phase one training: Initial Officer training – 24 weeks at RAF Cranwell on the Modular Initial Officer Training Course (MIOTC).
Phase two training: Specialist training – 1.5‑2 years at RAF Henlow, including a 3‑day SERE course.
First tour: Specialist training – ongoing, posted to a flying station with the assigned aircraft type.
Career prospects: Continuing specialist and in‑service degree opportunities; transferable skills for civilian roles.
Why join as an officer?
As an RAF Officer you lead a team, build camaraderie, and make quick decisions from day one. Benefits include subsidised food, travel, accommodation and free gym.
Application process overview
1. Aptitude test – 6 multiple‑choice sections covering verbal, numerical, work rate, spatial, electrical and mechanical reasoning.
2. Computer Based Aptitude Tests (CBAT) – assess physical response, two‑dimensional interpretation, three‑dimensional solution, multitask ability, deduction and reasoning.
3. Health assessment – meet medical standards and pass occupational health assessment.
4. Fitness test – Pre‑Joining Fitness Test (PJFT) and OASC leadership assessment.
5. (Omitted for brevity – continuous training stages).
6. Final offer of service after successful completion of all stages.
Apply now
Got what it takes? Start your application here.
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