REMOTELY PILOTED AIRCRAFT (RPA) PILOT

Today, more and more missions call for remotely piloted aircraft, such as the MQ-9 Reaper and the RQ-4 Global Hawk. As the demand for these specialized aircraft grows, so does the demand for qualified pilots to fly them. Whether it’s providing close-air support, gathering intelligence or conducting strategic air strikes, RPA Pilots are an integral and growing part of our nation’s air defense. In addition, RPA Pilots are officers in the U.S. Air Force responsible for guiding others and leading by example.

Relevant Interests and Skills

  • Aircraft Flight

Career Tasks

  1. Master all aspects of advanced aviation.
  2. Plan and prepare for missions.
  3. Operate aircraft controls and equipment.
  4. Perform, supervise or direct navigation, surveillance, reconnaissance and weapons employment operations.
  5. Lead and train a crew.

Service Commitment A Duty and an Honor

After completing all Air Force ROTC and academic degree requirements, cadets accept a commission as second lieutenants in the Air Force or Space Force, appointed by the President of the United States. The length of your initial service commitment depends on your career. Most officers have a four-year, active-duty service commitment. Pilots have a 10-year, active-duty service commitment, and both Combat System Officers and Air Battle Managers have a six-year service commitment upon completion of their respective training. Nursing graduates accept a commission in the Air Force Nurse Corps and serve four years on active duty after completing their licensing examination.

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