If red X above go to http://www.airforce-magazine.com/SiteCollectionImages/Magazine%20Article%20Images/2010/July%202010/Drones03.jpg
Posted on 07/06/2010 11:46:54 PM PDT by ErnstStavroBlofeld
Air Force leaders are working to build a new pilot culture in the service, creating a career track designed to turn officers without prior flying experience into operators of remotely piloted aircraft such as the MQ-1 Predator.
Officially institutionalized in June as Undergraduate RPA Training, the new course evolved from an experiment nearly two years in the making—called a beta test—which indicated that the syllabus will likely need to continue evolving.
A handful of officers have already passed the beta test to learn how to fly RPAs, and were awarded special wings recognizing their achievement. Some of those pilots are now operating drones in combat.
However, the experiment showed that candidates needed more actual flying time, more airmanship training, and more "seasoning" than initially expected, according to Air Education and Training Command officials.
The original idea was to create a course that would take less time and cost less than standard pilot training.
(Excerpt) Read more at airforce-magazine.com ...
Ping
Ping
I wonder what these new wings look like.
They’re simulated.
So, the Air Force is what, ten years late to the party?
If red X above go to http://www.airforce-magazine.com/SiteCollectionImages/Magazine%20Article%20Images/2010/July%202010/Drones03.jpg
Personally, I am very pleased with the idea of a dedicated RPA and associated coursework. Of the “real” pilots I did meet in the Air Force most were not in favor of a “real” pilot having to get out of the plane and fly it from a computer.
But the “Geek” type officers were happy to do it. So in the long run I think it will all balance out.
But the “Geek” type officers were happy to do it. So in the long run I think it will all balance out.
The opportunity to strut around in a flight suit, that’s what our modern Air Force is mostly about, hayna?
Young civilian secretary greeting an Air Force LTC: “How are you today, sir?”
Air Force LTC, simultaneously shouting, sneering, and leering: “Perfect! In other words, just average for a fighter pilot!”
Why do RPA controllers have to be officers?
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.